BLACK AND WHITE CARNIVAL

Colombia has a wide variety of fairs and festivals, which are held in different regions
throughout the year. Each year kicks off with the Black and White Carnival, one of the
most recognized festivals in the country. Over 6 days, the city of Pasto becomes the
backdrop for this important event.

What is the Black and White

Carnival?
The Black and White Carnival is one of the
most symbolic Colombian festivals,
reflecting the cultural traditions of the
region. It was declared a Cultural
Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in
2009, and every year it brings together
tourists from abroad and locals from
across Colombia.
How did the carnival start?
The origin of this celebration dates
back to those held by the indigenous
groups of this region to give their
thanks for successful harvests. Little by
little, they borrowed elements of
Spanish and African fairs and festivals,
due to the close contact they had with
these cultures.

Why is it important? Nowadays there are a variety

This event is regarded as the only carnival
with purely indigenous roots, which grew
from the mixing of cultural influences that
occured after Colombia’s Independence.
elements adopted in the Pasto
carnival, such as music, paintings,
gastronomy, and floats with huge
sculptures.

Activities:
As with every year, the Black and White Carnival will be held from 2nd to 7th of
January in the city of Pasto, the capital of the department of Nariño. In this
edition, you can enjoy the different colors and figures that adorn the floats, the
parades in the streets, and the history behind each of the days of the carnival.

More to do:
Get ready to witness the traditional events of the carnival, such as the Old
Years Parade, the Carnavalito, the Castañeda Family Parade, and the Black
and White Day. Also, other important events such as the Latin American Music
Concert and the Festival of Peasant Culture.

REFERENCES:
https://colombia.travel/en/fairs-and-festivals/black-and-white-carnival-paint-yourself-and-
discover
 ANSWER THE QUESTIONS
According to the information given, please answer the
following questions

True or false Why is this festival important

around the world?
Colombia has many festivals
Black and White carnival is the
most important in the country
The carnival lasts 10 years

What elements can you find in Who is coming to this festival

this festival? every year?

Activities you can do there:

What do you like the most about this

festival?