Join the Revelry of Carnaval in Ixtapa

Carnaval, which runs for several weeks prior to Lent, is much like the Mardi Gras that is celebrated throughout the United States. A variety of activities are typically planned for the celebration including concerts, parades, culinary festivals, parties, beauty pageants, cultural programs and much more. Cities fringing the Mexican coastline generally offer Carnaval celebrations that are quite comparable to those held in Rio de Janeiro.

The celebration is held during the week prior to Ash Wednesday, typically lasting slightly less than a week. The history of Carnaval in Mexico dates back to the 19th century. Derived from the Latin word Carnavale, which means "goodbye to the flesh," Carnaval has come to be associated with a time of indulgence and abandonment throughout many countries.

Historically, the inspiration for Carnaval as well as Mardi Gras, stems from the abstinence that is occurs during the forty days of Lent. While much of the Carnaval celebration is associated with the Christian faith, there are some parts of the celebration that harkens back to pre-Christian times. It is believed that the ancient Roman festival, Saturnalia, may have served as a basis for portions of the celebration.

Medieval Italy served as the site of the first Carnaval celebrations, with the carnival of Venice acting as the most famous carnival in the world for quite some time. From there, carnival traditions spread throughout Europe and then Latin America.

Today, Carnaval is a much beloved and anticipated event throughout Mexico. While some areas of Mexico are known for elaborate celebrations, others are far more tame. Ixtapa offers the opportunity to celebrate Carnaval while relaxing in a beautiful resort.

As in many cities, Carnaval is kicked off with the burning of El Mal Humor, or bad mood. In this celebration an effigy that is commonly modeled after an unpopular politician is hung and burned. This is generally followed by fireworks and confetti.

A variety of parades are held almost on a daily basis usually display a wide array of floats which are inspired by the scenery in Mexico. As many parades do require an entrance fee it is a good idea to obtain tickets as early as possible.

Of course, pageantry is an important part of Carnaval. Two major pageants are commonly held during the week of Carnaval. They the crowning of the Carnaval Queen, or Reina del Carnval and the selection of the Carnaval King, the Rey de Carnval. Large parties commonly follow the crownings. The week of Carnaval is culminated with another burning held on Martes de Carnval, the equivalent of Fat Tuesday. Usually the celebration includes the burning of a doll that is meant to symbolize everything that is impure. The doll is then buried in order to provide a fresh beginning for Lent and the coming spring.

When planning your visit to Ixtapa during Carnaval it is best to remember that hotels tend to be booked so it is a good idea to make reservations as early as possible.