El Güegüense, also known as Macho Ratón, is a folkloric drama, which combines theater, music, and dance. Listed by UNESCO, El Güegüense is an essential part of Nicaraguan culture, blending pre-Colombian and post-Colombian traditions. The performance can be witnessed annually in Diriamba during the feast of San Sebastián from January 17 to the 27th. The 10-day celebration is a vibrant Latin-American carnival, which takes place at Central Square and La Casa De Cultura.
The main character of El Güegüense is a native Mestizo man, who outwits the colonial authorities thanks to his rhetorical skills. Emerging in the 18th century, the play was originally created in the Nahuatl language, spoken in Southern Mexico and Central America.
Diriamba carnival is the best occasion to see the traditional El Güegüense drama and other activities, such as the coronation of the Queen of San Sebastian, who is elected out of eight candidates. The carnival features parades, live music, professional folk dance groups, marimba music, and fireworks. The highlights also include the religious procession to the hill of the Saints.
