Who doesn’t love a party? Who doesn’t love to dress up and dance? Well I certainly can’t say that Bolivians don’t love to. Every weekend so far there has been some kind of party or festival or some excuse to have a good time. This weekend was no exception. This weekend was Gran Poder.
Full name La Fiesta El Señor Jesús del Gran Poder is a huge parade of dancers and bands dressed up in all kinds of costumes from bears to angels to cowboys
to Incas etc. It starts early (I’m talking 7 am) and goes well into the night. It started out as a religious festival in the 1930’s it seems to have morphed into a colourful parade of costumes and Bolivian culture.
The Morenada is one of the more popular dances performed with brilliant costumes and skirts of all lengths.
For the participants Gran Poder is a competition with an entrance fee,
judges and rules. That does not mean of course that you can’t talk on your cell phone, stop to have a beer or simply have fun while you’re doing your thing. For the spectators, bring your sunscreen, go early to buy your seat, and don’t worry about food because there is lots being sold. Of course a cold beer (cerveza) or pop (refresco) to wash it down is in abundant supply. Ice cream is always a great dessert and there are lots of types to choose from if you want. Jello is also a popular choice here in Bolivia.
So if you find yourself with nothing to do on Gran Poder weekend and your in the vicinity of La Paz I would strongly recommend checking it out. Bring your camera and don't be shy to run up and ask to take a picture.
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