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In the first days of January, the traditional Carnival of Blacks and Whites (Carnaval de Negros y Blancos) is celebrated in Pasto, capital of Nariño, one of the most emblematic festivals in the entire country, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2009.
The origins of the Modern carnival can be found in the popular “negritos parties” that took place as early as the 19th century. In the first decades of the 20th century, these festivals were assimilating new traditions, configuring the carnival that we know today.
After the different pre-carnival festivities that begin on December 28, the carnival begins with "Black Day", in which participants paint their faces black in a symbolic act of inclusion and freedom, remembering the permission given to the slaves to celebrate.
The next day, "White People's Day" is celebrated, where everyone is covered in white with talcum powder, representing unity and equality.
One of the most anticipated moments is the float parade, which runs through the streets of Pasto with impressive artistic creations that show mythological figures, popular characters and landscapes of the region.
Also emblematic of this festival is the Castañeda Family parade, which recreates the arrival of a peasant family, representing traditional customs with extravagant characters and humorous scenes.
The Black and White Carnival(Carnaval de Negros y Blancos) is a celebration of joy, identity and diversity, where all attendees, locals and tourists, come together to enjoy a one-of-a-kind event.
