El Gran Carnaval de San Pedro returns
Celebrated during the days leading up to Ash Wednesday, Carnaval de San Pedro is a long-lived tradition of La Isla Bonita. Marked by four days of paint, power, and parties on the island, this festival attracts visitors from all over the country and the world.
Under the theme, “Tributo a la Tradicion“, this year’s activities will feature talent competitions, beach parties, and daily comparsas (street dances) – from 4 – 10 PM. These will take place on the main street throughout the downtown on the island.
Organized by the San Pedro Town Council, this festival has its rules and regulations.
The festival will feature night parties and festivals for children and the adults.
It kicked off on Friday, February 10 with a street festival in San Pedro Central Park. For the next three day, the Front Street (Barrier Reef Drive) will erupt with traditional dance, body painting and more.
The festival ends on February 14 – Ash Wednesday, with the symbolic burning of Juan Carnaval. The burning of the stuff effigy signifies the cleansing of the community. Locals believe it protects the island during lent.