See
here the best pictures and snapshots of el Festival de Mascaras de
Hatillo, Puerto Rico.
When
we expressed the office of Tourism of Hatillo that we were going to
photographically cover part of this event, they received us with open
arms. We were told about the beauty of this event celebrated
every year on December 28, but little we knew the true meaning,
beauty and magnitude of this event; an event were the inhabitants of
Hatillo, Puerto Rico are so proud of being part of it.
This
event basically starts a few days before the big day. Participants of
all ages are celebrating around the different ''barrios''
(neighborhoods) of Hatillo, they start with their coloful costumes
months in advance, in fact, those involved in the confection of these
colorful costumes have been declared artisans by the Institute
of Culture of Puerto Rico; and is not for less, long hours are
dedicated to the confection of these hand made costumes.
But
what's the meaning of the masks? They are made out of ''mosquitoes''
wire mesh. They keep the identity of those wearing them unknown. The
masks cover the faces of all those ''under three'' that Herodes
ordered to kill looking for the fisrt born child. During this event
there's live music, kiosks with local food, arts and crafts and best
of all, very nice and good people.
Facts
for the visitors:
This
event is well known around the Island, the streets leading to the
town are closed around 9:00AM. The best time to arrive there is
around 9:00 to 10:00AM. Traffic on the main highway 2 will become
very heavy and slow, especially if you are coming from San Juan. You
might find out that you got there too early, but this will save you
time by being able to find a parking spot, a good spot to observe the
show, etc. Our credentials opened the barricades by local police but
you might not be able, however, once the town is closed it is not a
long walk to it.
If you
are coming for the fisrt time, you might not know that there is a
noise contest, that's right, a noise contest. Contestants are up for
a prize for the noisiest car. See
this picture
and it will give you an idea, unless you can bear the noise (we
couldn't) you should bring ear plugs, especially if you are coming
with children. We got ours at Kmart and Walgreens. Once you are there
with your ear plugs and cameras, enjoy this colorful event, an event
that has been rated by visitors from the states as the Puertorican
Mardigras. Be prepared to get showered with beer filled Super
Soakers, some ''Barbasol'', pancake syrop and other sticky stuff....Enjoy! |
thru
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