The La Paz Carnival is one of the oldest in Mexico

Raymundo León

Origins and evolution of the Carnival

The scholar notes that the main setting of the city’s early carnivals was Jardín Velasco, but over the years it moved to the malecón, which was built from coastal landfill works in front of the old part of the city.

Initially, he explains, the tradition unfolded over three effervescent days preceding Ash Wednesday, marking a rhythmic cadence in local calendars during the months of February or March.

Cultural significance and celebration

He adds that throughout the ages, these celebrations have endured as a cherished jewel in the heart of the port, bringing the community together in joyful festivities that transcend time.

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In 1910, the carnival took on a new dimension when its organization was assumed by the Popular Club, presided over by J.C. Acevedo with Ignacio Bañuelos Cabezud serving as secretary.

Enciso Pérez points out that these periods stand as the most enigmatic and least known stages in terms of organization, details of the festivities, and the names of queens and entertainers who took part in these fleeting yet vibrant cultural expressions.

The historian adds that on the eve of the carnival festivities, a singular tradition—whose origins are imprecise—marks the beginning of the celebrations.

The ritual before Carnival in La Paz

A spectacle of sarcasm and social criticism

The execution of the sentence unfolds with the fiery burning of the effigy, accompanied by the clamor of noisemakers and the glow of fireworks that proclaim the triumphant start of the celebration.

Jardín Velasco as the Carnival epicenter in the 1950s

The revelry overflowed with traditional games such as the greased pole, while the streets filled with masked revelers who colored the landscape and unleashed boisterous excitement.

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