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On the banks of the Patascoy River in the department of Putumayo, about 70 kilometers from the border with Ecuador, is the municipality of Orito, a town that emerged from the oil extraction camps in the Amazon foothills in the mid-20th century.
At the beginning of each year Orito celebrates its carnivals, one of the most important festivities in the town.
During carnivals (Carnavales de Enero), the streets of Orito are filled with parades of floats and troupes, where participants wear elaborate costumes and colorful masks.
The dances and choreographies reflect the cultural diversity of the region, with indigenous and highland Nariñense influences.
The festival includes a variety of activities for all ages, such as a children's beauty pageant, traditional games, live music performances, and displays of local cuisine.
There is also a beauty pageant where the candidates showcase their beauty and knowledge of the culture and history of Orito and Putumayo.
The January Carnivals in Orito (Carnavales de Enero) not only celebrate local folklore and traditions but also promote social cohesion and a sense of belonging. They are a testament to the unity of cultures that characterizes the settlement process of the department.
