Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day in Uruguay ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Carnival / Shrove Tuesday / Pancake Day in Uruguay and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
The Carnival or “Carnaval” of Uruguay is celebrated in February, leading up to Lent and the Easter season. It is a time of celebration, music, dancing, and feasting. The festivities begin on Shrove Tuesday (known as Martes de Carnaval), the day before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. This marks the beginning of a week-long carnival celebration that culminates in the final Mardi Gras celebrations on Fat Tuesday.
On Shrove Tuesday, traditional Uruguayan families will gather for a feast of pancakes, known as Tortitas de Carnaval. These pancakes are usually served with dulce de leche, a popular caramel-like sauce made from milk and sugar. Pancake Day is also a time for dressing up in costume, playing games, and participating in parades. The most famous parade takes place in Montevideo, where hundreds of people take to the streets to show off their costumes and join in the festivities.
To celebrate Carnival in Uruguay, many people participate in parades, eat pancakes, and dress up in costumes. Many towns also host parties and events where people can watch performances, dance, and enjoy traditional Uruguayan food. For those looking for an even more authentic experience, there are also traditional “comparsas” or street bands that will lead the procession through town. No matter how you choose to observe Carnival, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience!