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| San Pedro
Lions comparsa depicted "La Vencindad del Chavo"
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| Island children enjoy Carnaval
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There was much speculation whether carnaval would take place this year as everything
happening in Belize at the present time seemed to revolve around politics. Many
were afraid that elections would obscure this year's celebrations but once again
local residents made sure that the island tradition continued.
Scores of children, youths and the "young at heart"
formed a colorful mosaic on the streets of the island as they gleefully
celebrated the three days of carnaval with festive spirits. Bright colors
adorned the faces and bodies of hordes of locals and many tourists as they
continued the long-standing tradition of painting each other with water-based
paint, soot and sometimes lipstick; a custom unique to San Pedro. The comparsas
(ethnic street dancing) added a more cultural side to the
celebrations. The San Pedro Lions Club once again
demonstrated their "carnaval spirit" as they danced all three days. On Sunday,
the lively Lions depicted the Rastafarians. On Monday, they paid tribute to "La
Vecindad del Chavo del Ocho," a comedic Mexican sitcom. Tuesday's finale
featured the song "Los Frijoleros," portraying Mexican "bean pickers" who are
angry with their US employers.
Much praise
should be given to the San Pedro Lions Club for ensuring that the comparsa
tradition lives on and is instilled in the younger generation, and to Rosita
Ayuso for writing this year's comparsa songs. Special thanks also goes out to
Pauly's Pizza for the delicious pizza donated to the Lions comparsa, and
everyone who contributed money for the dances. Carnaval
enthusiasts enjoyed all three days of celebrating "to the max". Exhausted but
elated street revelers retired to their homes filled with memories of the great
fun they experienced during Carnaval 2003. The San Pedro Sun joins the community in saluting the
San Pedro Lions Club, The Holiday Hotel, carnaval painters and all participants
for helping keep the tradition alive.
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