Carnival is a time of celebration in every catholic country around the world to go crazy and get a little wild before the somberness of lent. It begins a week before ash Wednesday, the first day of lent. The Tuesday before is known as Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday and is usually the craziest day of all.

Since there are celebrations all through the catholic world Mexico is no exception and some of the best Carnival revelry is right here in Merida. There is a different parade each day for the week leading to Ash Wednesday. Streets are closed, venders are selling wares, people are dancing in the streets and schools even close for a few days. Each day has it’s own theme; some are dedicated to children while others cater to adults. For example, there is a children?s parade, a regional parade and other themes such as fantasy or flowers.

I was happy to find out that you can purchase tickets for the Carnival parades to have a front row seat for the action. The tickets are cheap but you must get them early as they sell out. This way you have a great view of the incredible costumes, music, floats, flowers and all the other cultural wonders.

Carnival is a wonderful time to visit Merida and I recommend any traveler who is in love with culture to experience Carnival at least once in their life.