Carnival 2013, San Martin Tilcajete

Carnival, the festival of the flesh, takes place on the day before Lent.  Last Tuesday, February 13, we celebrated in a big way in the village of San Martin Tilcajete, about 40 minutes from the city of Oaxaca.  Many of the young people switch their gender for the day to dress up, have a lot of fun and celebrate with dancing and a parade through the village.

Animals and monsters were another theme for the day.  This creature amazed us in many ways; he really looked great as you can see.  However, the event was held at noon and lasted at least two hours - we were hot in our light shirts and shorts!

A cool couple

The tail end of the revelers in costume as they head out of the town square and up through the village streets to a spot where a large tent has been set up to feed everyone.  The white bucket is filled with candy and treats that are tossed out to the crowd and spectators.

No kidding around, it was hot and dusty, but we loved every minute as we made our way through the dirt streets,       encouraged by  the  loud band.

Stan got in on the action and fun.

Silliness was all around . . .

. . . and the "wedding" delighted everyone who gathered under the tent.  The parts that we understood were funny, but judging from the laughter, the parts we didn't understand were even funnier.

I don't think she got the jokes either.

The delighted audience

Can there be such a thing as too much purple?

Another good joke

Some of the diablitos, or little devils, another custom of the day.

Boys smear oil or tar on themselves and travel around the village trying to scare people.  They also have cowbells tied on their waists so there is a great deal of noise as they run.  Watch out, tall gringo!

A diablito with a great sense of style and attitude.

The village of San Martin is known for their fantastic wood carvings and there are many workshops that sell these alibrijes. So much creativity in such a small place!

 

Boys just want to have fun!