Pase de Niños

The Catholics have an very interesting tradition here. From December to February they celebrate Pase de Niños. I think literally translated this is the passing of the children. As my teacher has explained, groups of families or groups within churches (and there are MANY churches in Cuenca) form a small parade. This parade does not seem to be announced and certainly the police do not clear the streets of traffic. In fact, I have not yet seen any police at the Paseo de Niños. The parade just forms and walks several blocks and the traffic just backs up. And this happens almost daily and at any time of the day.

The costumes and floats in the parade are most elaborate. And it appears that parents and maybe friends walk along beside. The participants are always children. They dress like biblical characters, one float will have the nativity scene, and others will be dressed in Spanish garb. There might be 3 or 4 floats and a horse or two. And there is always music, and often fireworks, which also helps announce to the traffic to prepare to slow down. I´ve gotten some great pictures of the children as they are dressed. I find it interesting that often the women who walk along carry what look to me like wooden cradles, much like little children in the US use to play with their dolls. And in the cradle of course is a baby doll. After the parade, families will celebrate at home with great feasts and celebration.

More about Pase de Niño in the blog on Saraguro.