Carnaval de Negros y Blancos, Pasto - the 28 December water day

1546

The Blacks and Whites' Carnival in Pasto, southern Colombia, is dated to 1546 and was named a UNESCO Masterpiece of Intangible Heritage on 30 September 2009. Its pre-carnival opens on 28 December, when Pastusos play with water, soaking passers-by. What began as a day of tricks and hoaxes became this water game, imitating the water carnival of neighbouring Quito. The practice has since been prohibited because of water shortages. A recurring annual custom.