Carnival Fun!

Since Thursday the Carnival in Barcelona has literally been in "full swing"! This year presidied over by the Reina Belluga, this is the first time in three years it has been a woman. The Carnival has been revived recently as during the years of Franco it had practically disappreared. It starts on a Thursday better known as "Fat Thursday" - The First Feast, where everyone takes the last opportunity to eat well before Lent is due to start.

On Friday the Reina Belluga officially begins the carnival proceedings in the "Arribo" (arrival of the queen). She is a histortic character from the 17th century who symbolises the excesses of the Carnival. The Reina Belluga declares her rule over this year's festivities after the Parade of the Seven Ambassadors. Afterwords, there is the lighting of the Carnival fireworks when party really gets started!

Over the course of the weekend there are various brightly coloured parades through the neighbourhoods of Barcelona. Performers, music, floats and over the top costumes! Its' all there! Sunday sees "La Toronjada" which takes its name from the oranges that were once thrown in celebation as part of the festival! No oranges thrown now, just balloons and confetti!!

The Carnival ends on Ash Wednesday, traditionally the Burial of the Sardine, which marks the end of the festival. You don't actually bury any sardines! It's just a symbolic finish to the Carnival that represents the end of the past and the rebirth of society.

GALLERY

An ambassador

Performer

The Carnival