Carnival in Ambato is one of the city’s largest celebrations, and people from throughout Ecuador – and even other countries! – come to party. Here we celebrate the Festival of Fruits and Flowers to demonstrate the agricultural wealth and economic viability of the city. Festivities began in early January with events leading up to the crowning of the city’s new queen, a 10k race past the quintas of the three Juans (historically famous men, each named Juan, who were born in Ambato), and more. But the big weekend was the first in February.
I was really excited to host a few of my fellow PCVs for the weekend. Most arrived on Friday night, and we went out dancing. The next morning, while they slept in, I went to the city center to see the Mass for the blessing of the fruits, flowers, and bread. A large mural made entirely of fruits, flowers, and grains was constructed on the side of the cathedral. At the start of the Mass, the doors covering the mural opened to reveal an epic sacred heart made of chili peppers and four vignettes of well-known parables, such as the prodigal son.
Later that day we made brunch and had coffee together. To just sit and debate about American politics, NPR podcasts, and current events in English was wonderful. I didn’t realize how much I was missing those kinds of discussions! Afterward we went to our friend Caro’s home for hornado, or roasted pig. Her family was hosting a fundraiser, so it was nice to visit her and support their cause. Then we took a bus back to the city center to wander a bit and sightsee in the city parks.
That night we got ready for our big night out. We splurged on tickets to attend what was being called the best party in town. It included a live performance by Sebastian Yatra, a colombian teen sensation. It truly was a great night of dancing!
Sunday morning was the first parade. Fortunately our friend Ismael lives along the parade route and he reserved us seats for a perfect view. The parade included pageant queens from throughout the country including Miss Ecuador and, of course, the new Queen of Ambato. Student groups from various local schools and universities danced in costumes that represented the different industries of the province. Other countries also participated, including Belgium, China, Chile, Mexico, and Argentina.
When the parade ended the streets flooded with people “playing carnival.” Throughout the country it is common to play by attacking people with spray foam, water balloons, flour, eggs, and colored powder. Because Ambato has the festival, playing carnival is frowned upon by the local government – but that didn’t stop us from having a huge foam fight.
We grabbed some llapingachos for lunch and braved the foam fight again to get back home. The rest of the afternoon was relaxing, and I even had a chance to catch the Super Bowl half-time show. Most left that night to get back to their sites, but the party still wasn’t over for my host sister and me. We met up with several Ecuadorian friends and went to see Los Adolescentes, a venezuelan salsa group.
On Monday I got to cleaning the apartment where my friends stayed and washing the sheets. Fortunately we have a washing machine, but we line dry everything, and the drizzly weather that day made it hard to get my work done. That evening was the night parade. People had told me it is the same parade but at night with lights, but it was so much more! The elegant gowns of the queens were swapped for over-the-top costumes with elaborate headdresses. The order was switched up and more dancing was included. I don’t think one parade was better than the other – both were equally enjoyable. And, again, after the parade the streets became a giant foam fight.
Overall, it was a fantastic weekend! We’re already looking forward to next year.
*Most video & photo credit goes to the city and provincial governments, and friends.
AWEcuador 
The pictures all look so colorful! It looks like a wonderful event!