As Carnival started on Friday with the big parade we arrived early to get a good spot, so we parked at the Tequila Factory on Benito Juarez. Upon entering, Fernando was pouring samples for about 10 people and entertaining them with his stories. We had the pleasure to speak with the Miller’s who are here visiting in their motorhome and staying at Playa Bonita. Mr. Miller explained they are part of a Winnebago Group and this was their 2nd group to come down. They had nearly 20 rigs each time. They have a full schedule of events, from sunset cruise to going to El Pinacate and everything in between. We welcomed them and told them we looked forward to them coming back next year. This is quite a group and they travel all over the US and Mexico. Then we spent some time with the other 3 couples who were from Arizona and staying In Cholla Bay. One of the couples is also part of the volunteers for the mission that I recently did a blog on. It is amazing how close this little community is!
Now on to the parade. It must have gotten a late start, but it did not disappoint the crowd. My husband asked Martin Martinez one of the organizers, “Did it start at 3:00” as by now it was nearing 4:30 and his response was “How long have you lived in Mexico?” You can see from the pictures, the streets were lined all the way from the start to the end. Saturday night, the bands entertained the crowds between Calle 12 and Calle 13 and everyone had a great time at the carnival itself, with its games and rides.
It was a bit comical when one of the first floats got to the pedestrian overpass at Calle 13. The beautiful young lady had to sit down to clear it. Then came the Eternal Princess Guille who always put smiles on the crowds of adoring fans faces. There were marching bands, stilt people, local motorcycle club riders and so much more.
All 3 days of Carnival consisted of parades, bands from all over, food and beverage vendors. The first night and Sunday night the sky was filled with large displays of the most colorful fireworks, something like I have never seen here in Puerto Peñasco and even Phoenix. They lasted about 30 minutes each night. The music lasted well into the wee hours of the morning.
I hope that next year, it will be even larger. I invite you to come down and come along for the ride. We promise you will be safe and enjoy our beautiful weather every day of your stay in Puerto Peñasco. The whales are still here, so come on down.
