Holiday Ideas in February: Carnival of Oruro, Bolivia
Held in the capital of Bolivia, the Carnival of Oruro occurs every year and is a 2000 year old religious celebration with folklore dances. With over 28,000 dancers and 10,000 musicians participating in the procession, the celebrations can last for up to 20 hours.
Carnival of Oruro, Bolivia
Usually held in the first week of February, the Carnival of Oruro will be held on February 18th in 2012. Declared a "Masterpieces of Oral Heritage and Intangible Heritage of Humanity" by the UNESCO in 2001, the festival is worthwhile experiencing live.
Legend has it that in 1789 a mural of the Virgin Mary appeared in a mineshaft of the richest silver mine in Oruro. Ever since the carnival has been observed in honour of the Virgen de la Candelaria (Virgin of the Candle Mass) and the most important elements of the Carnival now occur in and around the Sanctuaria del Socavon (The Church of the Mineshaft).
Marching bands compete in the grotto of Pie de Gallo, to greet the Virgin. The procession culminates in the enactment of two medieval plays, one about the Spanish conquest and the other about the classical battle between good and evil. Ultimately the carnival is a celebration for men, women and children to come together to sing and dance, showing to the world their unique religious syncretism.
Further information relating to Carnival of Oruro, Bolivia
Travel to Bolivia and explore the still waters of Lake Titicaca and the salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. Visit La Paz, one of Bolivia's most beautiful cities, along with Santa Cruz and the Jesuit Missions.
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