When we decided to wind through the world for two years, Melissa and I agreed that we should attend cultural festivals in each country. As I flipped through a guidebook six weeks ago I realized that we had stumbled upon the largest and most colorful celebration in Ecuador. We immediately made plans with two new German friends, Sally and Andreas, to attend La Fiesta Mama Negra in Latacunga. Already in the central highlands region, we traveled two hours north to witness vibrant colors and enjoy upbeat music as an enormous parade snaked and weaved through the city. The full name of the festivities is the Festival de la Virgen de Las Mercedes which takes place over an entire weekend in late September. This party is so grand that they continue on November 11th. If you are near the central highlands during these dates, make your way to this memorable event.
For more information check Melissa’s post- Dancing in the Street during La Fiesta Mama Negra.
After a two hour bus ride from Baños and a short taxi we set off in Latacunga, intent on finding the procession.
By noon bands were warming up outside Latacunga's church square.
During Mama Negra, young girls live a fairy-tale mounted on horseback and wearing a tiara.
Heroic men summon adrenaline to tote heavy altars through downtown.
Young boys carry smaller altars through the streets of Latacunga.
Flower petals shower a sacred statue of Madonna and Child.
I contemplated carrying this altar then realized there are no bathrooms on the ride back to Baños.
Slightly scary clowns stalk the crowd searching for mischief.
Sally, volunteer at La Casa Verde, tries a crispy snack.
Mama Negra graces the crowd spraying liquor at revelers.
Young dancers flock to Latacunga to continue traditions.
Monstrous altars are decorated and stacked with roasted animals, liquor, cigarettes, and Ecuadorian flags.
A convincing clown coaxed me into dancing with a doll.
Paraders save all year to purchase outfits for the festival.
Even dogs get dressed up for La Fiesta Mama Negra
sending...
Wish I had known about the festival! The photos show it was a fantastic experience. Great to catch up with you today in Cueca. Got to know your site a little tonight and I will continue to follow it. Happy travels and buena suerte to you both. Nicki
Hi Nicky! Yes, the festival is amazing! And when we went in September it was just the practice run for the big parades on November 11th!
Maybe next time you can see it. Mama Negra is definitely worth it especially considering how lovely their parade garb is!! We’ll definitely be back. Hope you have a great trip and it was fantastic meeting up with you under a tiny Cuenca ledge in a rain storm! 
Take care!
Hey Nicki
It was fun getting soaked with you and Paul in Cuenca. We leave tomorrow to continue south to Villcabamba and then on to Peru. I can’t believe 3 months in Ecuador and our visa are almost up. We are happy you enjoyed Photo Friday. It’s satisfying to search through our archives and relive moments on the road.