BY PEDRO LÓPEZ HERNÁNDEZ
IN SOME countries, the carnival season is approaching. Mexico is not an exception. In San Pedro Cholula (Puebla), one of the most peculiar celebrations in Mexico takes place. This is the carnival, which has a tradition that began in the last century.
The main streets of San Pedro look crowded with people in military-type suits and masks, all accompanied by a traditional musical band and the excited public. The parade reaches the main square (called Plaza de la Concordia in Spanish) to begin one of the most important symbolic events. This will be repeated on March 8 and 9.
On Feb. 16, the president of the community, Tonantzin Fernández, began the festivities when she placed the banner at the Casa del Caballero Águila. She also mentioned that there will be a parade (called the ‘mascaritas parade’) on Fe. 23. In addition, the event will be monitored to prevent incidents, and even the consumption of alcoholic beverages has been prohibited.
The beginnings of the carnival
It was during the 20th century that the celebration formally began. At the beginning, the event lacked colorful symbols, because it was a parade with common elements and costumes that characterize other celebrations (such as the presence of people who characterize the native peoples of America, such as the Apaches).
Over time, the carnival from Huejotzingo, a nearby municipality that pioneered the festivity, was replicated. The utilization of more elaborate masks and bright costumes was used until it became a distinctive feature.
The dances and jumps performed by the participants are something that is ingrained, but the military theme was added. Precisely the people in costume carry a musket, which uses gunpowder and actually causes explosions, so this element originated in Cholula.
Notable aspects and features
Unlike other Mexican festivities, this carnival, along with that of Huejotzingo, is characterized by military clothing that combines elements of the original Mexican cultures, while showing minimally the Spanish mark.
However, the uniform similar to that of the French martial authorities began as a way to remember the battle of May 5, 1862 (which occurred in Puebla city), against the troops of Napoleon III, which resulted in victory for the Mexicans.
With colorful hats and fake but shiny badges, memorable times in Mexican history are remembered and at the same time, a tribute to the past is paid. The masks represent expressionless rosy faces, but accompanied by a thick beard, or some participants wear sunglasses that match their clothes.
Another aspect no less important, is the formation of groups of dancers, called battalions, which are a satire and representation of the old military groups such as the French, and there is even a group that represents the Turks.
The key period is during the weekend (dates that vary due to the beginning of Easter), this year they will be March 8 and 9. During the first day, the battalions take over the main square, and then retreat to their barracks.
The next day, the moment when Agustín Lorenzo (a bandit) stole the daughter of the mayor of Huejotzingo is represented, and the stories say that the couple got married. A small house is also burned and everything ends with the abandonment of the square.
Because of these elements, the Cholula carnival has gained popularity in Mexico and now attracts other cultures, as it preserves traditions and stories that contain colors, feelings, and a melting pot of symbols.
