Limoux Carnaval

Today we decided to check out the Carnaval. The Carnaval boasts being the longest-running in the whole world. According to the information I've read, the festival was first recorded in writing as early 1600s, but it's believed to have been going since long before that.

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first troupe with brass band

For over 2 months each year, 3 times a day on Saturdays and Sundays, the groups come out into the Place de la Republique and visit cafe owners and parade to the public. The players are not recognisable and carry a long wand (carabena) and wear a mask, and are accompanied by a band playing a miraid of tunes. They all carry confetti and after they leave, the place is covered with the colour of the visiting troupe. Today the players went to one cafe and each took a dance partner when the band started to play.

bull with 'trophies'

Note the trophies on the bull....
It's a lovely festive and carnaval atmosphere, and we saw that many people make the effort to come out and see the spectacle. Lots of cameras are poised and people vie for the ultimate position for a good photo. The link below is the best I could find in English with the history, stories, pictures and further links for those interested to read more (take a look, even if just for the photos).

http://www.languedoc-france.info/041106_fecos.htm

Spanish Lady

Cheesy Grin