The Diablada, or the Devil’s Carnival, is getting underway in Bolivia this weekend. It is a celebration steeped in history, and features some very colourful costumes.
The Diablada is held in Oruru – the folklore capital of Bolivia – and takes place over three days. It is a religious celebration that dates back more than 2,000 years, taking in Pagan and Christian beliefs.
The religious diversity of the Diablada makes it a unique event – it has been recognised by UNESCO as a “Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”.
So what is so unique about this celebration? Well, it encompasses the different cultures, religions and practices that are in place across Bolivia – celebrating them all in event that’s open to everyone.
And with more than 28,000 dancers, 10,000 musicians and an astounding 400,000 men, women and children, all coming together for one big party, the Diablada is one of the must-see events on the world’s cultural calendar.
The costumes may look like something straight out of a child’s nightmare, but don’t be put off. The Diablada is all about tradition, celebration, and having a good old-fashioned knees-up!
See the action unfold in this video:
(Images: CassandraW1, Abcletras, woychukb, Pame82s, Elemaki; bjaglin)
