The parade and contest are sponsored by Mexico City's Museum of Popular Arts. The "alebrijes" are large, colorful, fantastical animals made of cardboard and papier mache. They are wheeled through the streets of Mexico City from the main plaza, the Zócalo, to the Monument to Independence on the Paseo de la Reforma. This year there were 197 entries created by workshops and individual artists.
This was the second year in a row that Alejandro and I have gone to see the parade. The forecast called for heavy rain and thunderstorms. The morning began very gray and gloomy. As we took a spot along Juárez Avenue near the intersection with the Paseo de la Reforma, we were hoping that the rain would hold off for the parade.
From where we were standing, you can see the National Lottery Building and in the background the domed Monument to the Revolution.
Then, shortly before noon, as the streets were being closed to traffic, the clouds broke, and it turned out to be a beautifully sunny day.
The parade is great fun. This year it seemed that there were more bands and costumed dancers than last year which added to the festive atmosphere.
Here are some videos and photos of the parade...
Nancy and Fred (I'm sure that you will be reading this), even though you were not here for the parade, you will be able to see all the "alebrijes", because they will be on display along the Paseo de la Reforma until November 4th.
Alex would be reminded of home if he were to see Parade the Circle here in Cleveland!
ReplyDeleteI have never seen it, but I'm sure he would enjoy it.
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