Greetings from Gualeguaychú, Argentina
GREETINGS FROM ... are short field notes. Friends of OLLI send us their impressions from the road.
Gualeguaychú, Argentina. One of the most spectacular carnival festivals takes place there at the beginning of each year, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors. Similar to the world-famous carnival in Rio de Janeiro, the event is characterized by large parades with a competitive character, elaborate costumes and samba-inspired music. However, despite its great importance within Argentina and parts of South America, the Gualeguaychú Carnival is still considered an insider tip internationally - a regional superstar, so to speak.
Dear travel enthusiasts
We would never have thought that a carnival would get us as excited as the one in the rather small town of Gualeguaychú. As soon as we arrived at the specially built open-air stadium, the so-called Corsódromo, in the evening, there was this electric tension in the air - music, voices, the flickering of lights.
And then it started. The first comparsa (dance and music group) passed us by, and suddenly everything was just color, rhythm and movement. Glittering costumes, huge feather headdresses and dancers who moved with an energy that got right under your skin. We couldn't sit still - at some point we just clapped along and let ourselves drift.
What particularly impressed us was how much heart and soul each individual group put into their performance. You realize immediately: this is not just a show, it is passion, competition and pride at the same time. Every comparsa wanted to be the best - and we had the feeling that everyone deserved it.
💡 Did you know that this carnival lasts for almost two months (January to March) - unlike many others that are concentrated in just a few days - and is therefore often referred to as the "longest carnival in the world"?
As we walked back later through the warm night, we were completely overwhelmed. Tired, hoarse from cheering, but happy. This carnival is not an event that you just watch - you become a part of it.
It was clear to us: this wasn't just an evening. It was an experience we won't forget in a hurry.
Jacqui & Robin
More about Jacqui & Robin