Heritage of Humanity: Colombia's Carnaval
BARRANQUILLA, Colombia – The transformation of Barranquilla, Colombia into its annual Carnaval begins the second Christmas ends.
It draws 1.5 million people to the coastal city and its the country's biggest celebration. The tradition takes places across the Caribbean coast, and Colombia is second to only Rio, Brazil. Coastal rhythms, street food and intricate costumes overtake the city every year.
But for the country’s indigenous and AfroColombian populations – groups that have been historically marginalized – it’s become a way to grapple with Colombia's complicated history of racism and discrimination, and preserve their cultural traditions.