One of the merriest carnivals in Mexico is held in the state of Sinaloa five days prior to Ash Wednesday. Its main feature is the abundance of brass bands. Carnaval de Mazatlán starts with the sounds of tambora, and for five days, the music is heard all over the city around the clock.
Where to go and what to expect
Taking place on the beautiful Pacific coast, this festival offers two colorful parades, a vibrant coronation at the Teodoro Mariscal Baseball Stadium, firework shows, a big party at Olas Altas, and lots of traditional live music. Now, let's get into the details!
The first parade
The first, Inaugural Parade of the Carnival is held on Sunday along the Malecon–an oceanfront promenade with fantastic views of the main bay in Mazatlán. The parade, usually kicks off at 5 pm, snaking down from Avenida Del Mar to Punto Valentino. You'll witness several dozens of floats and participating dance groups.
The second parade
The second Carnival Parade takes place on Tuesday. The procession goes along the southside lane of the Malecon, from Avenida de lo Deportes to Olas Altas. Both parades are attended by about 500,000 people.
Olas Altas street party
Another highlight of the Carnival is a street party at Olas Altas, a beach at the southern end of the Malecón, The party features several stages with live music and 11 stages with DJs, set up from the Sinaloa Shield to Avenida Zaragoza. The party runs for several days from 6 pm to 2 am.
