En Barranquilla se baila así

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Barranquilla has one of the biggest carnavals in South America. After returning from Christmas break there was a week or so of regular class before everything revolved around Carnaval. The school put on its own mini-carnaval with all classes participating from 2nd grade to seniors. As you might imagine it was a huge deal. First each class had to choose a king and queen to represent the class, lead the class dance or comparsa, and perform for several viernes de la reina. However, it falls to the mother of the class queen to organize costumes, pictures, posters, class practices and hire a choreographer. It's a big responsibility! Lucky for me, the queen of 5A is a great student with very supportive and involved parents.

Carnavals showed off the students and school at its best. Amazing presentations, dances and costumes. I felt very privaleged to be a part of the experience... or at least watch it. Since my camera was stolen, here are some pictures taken by Jill:

Banner celebrating the 3 cultures of the Caribbean: Native American, Spanish and African.

Everyone was in costumes, and many classes had signs to support their class King and Queen.

Fifth grade comparsa. They were fantastic!

Fourth Graders dancing Cumbia.

Second graders dancing a garabato dance. I don't remember the whole story, but the black, red, yellow and green costumes go with it, and death makes an appearance.