The world famous Malecón of Mazatlán is setting the stage for a spectacular week of pre-Lenten celebrations, filled with music, dancing, parade floats, food, drinks, and a festive and euphoric atmosphere at Carnival, the world’s third largest celebration from February 8th through February 13th. This year’s theme is “Patasalada: Circo de los Talentos,” a tribute to native artists and entertainers that have made their mark on the world stage.
“For this wonderful and festive week, we welcome the many people who are arriving from all around the world, as they become one with Mazatlecos,” said Marco García Castro, Secretary of Tourism. “It is a beautiful sight to behold, watching the Malecón transform into a flowing wave of people singing, dancing, and celebrating from sundown to sunrise enchanted by the music, the festive atmosphere, and feeling of joy,” he added.
The “Pearl of the Pacific” bejewels and bedazzles as revelers adorned in alluring masks, sequined and feathered costumes celebrate in Carnival style. They sing and dance the night away with non-stop celebrations, colorful parades featuring festive floats and brilliant fireworks. Mazatlán’s annual attendance for the six-day celebration swells to nearly 500,000 people, making it the third largest Carnival celebration in the world after Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and New Orleans, Louisiana.
The city has erected gigantic paper-maché sculptures along the Malecón – one of the longest boardwalks in the world. Revelers are welcome to dance in the streets and enjoy the array of gastronomic delights, festive concerts, non-stop performing arts, and more. Carnival’s processions will start at the deer monument and make their way to Casa del Marino.
Sylvia Ruiz Coppel, Under-secretary of Tourism, paid tribute to the rich history that the event has with Mexicans and global tourists alike.
“It is an honor for Mazatlán to be one of the top global destinations for this event that is celebrated by tens of millions around the world,” said Ruiz Coppel. “From the days of “confetti and serpentina” in 1898, to the modern event it is today, we ensure that visitors of all ages have a unique and memorable experience,” she added.
Here are some of the major events during the weeklong festivities:
February 8, 2018 – Coronation of the King of Joy
February 8, 2018 – Inauguration of gastronomic exhibition
February 8, 2018 – Masquerade Ball
February 9, 2018 – Coronation of the Queen of the Floral Games
February 10, 2018 – Coronation of the Carnival Queen
February 10, 2018 – Burning of a Puppet Effigy, ”Mal Humor,” exorcising bad moods/negative energies
February 10, 2018 ¬- Naval Combat featuring state-of-the-art Fireworks Display
February 11, 2018 – Sunday Inaugural Parade
February 12, 2018 – Coronation of the Child Queen
February 12, 2018 – Children’s Fantasy Ball
February 12, 2018 – Festival of Lights Fireworks
February 12, 2018 – Ball of Ambassadors
February 13, 2018 – Carnival’s Second Parade
Some of the headlining entertainment at the Estadio Teodoro Mariscal includes:
• Il Divo, a multi-national classical crossover vocal group, on February 9th
• Miguel Bosé, a popular musician and actor, on February 10th
• CD 9, a popular Mexican boy band, on February 12th
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