Blog Archive

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

More than just Carnaval in Gualeguaychú

I visited the town of Gualeguaychú (Gazunheit!), 3 hrs from Buenos Aires, to celebrate Carnaval, the huge indulgent party before the sacrifice of Lent. Cause it’s all about religion, right? We started the madness at the beach. It was like spring break. Thousands of young Argentines going completely bananas. Body paint, spray foam, firecrackers, lots of teeny tiny bikinis, music pumping from the speakers, conga lines and everyone having the BEST time! What a way to start my Carnaval experience!






   Finally, someone dressed as a religious figure! Not sure what the others were going for....


After a few hours of beach time, my ears ringing my shoulders sunburned, I needed some quiet time before more intense madness later that night. I took a walk and explored the quaint town.







Yup. Cow hoof Mate (strong herbal tea) cups. Only in Argentina.


During rest time (aka beer o’clock) I heard horses hooves and turned to see a spectacle that I could have only hoped for. About a hundred Gauchos were parading down the narrow street! A photographers dream. Gauchos can be loosely described as Argentina’s version of the North American Cowboy.











And then off to the extravagant parade. The floats were unbelievable, the costumes over the top. It was like Alice in Wonderland meets The Wizard of Oz, a hint of Gay Pride, splash of Mardi Gras and it went on for 6 hours! It wasn't just those participating in the parade that were dressed up, everyone had a crazy wig, fun costumes, feathers everywhere, silly string and foam spayed from all angles. Man those Argentines sure know how to PARTY!





4 comments:

  1. Oooo... i just love reading these new blog posts. Makes me want to come for a visit!! Keep 'em coming :)
    Lisa

    ReplyDelete
  2. Wow! What a beautiful place. Great shots!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Great blog! Looks like it was an incredible time! What was the guy doing with the gas can though???

    ReplyDelete
  4. Awesome! Your pictures have really captured each moment of your experience at the Carnaval in Gualeguaychú! Can't wait to experience Argentina with you guys in just a month away!! Glad you are having a good time! :-)

    ReplyDelete