San Lorenzo’s pastorela presented many surprising aspects. When we arrived, mothers, grandmothers, and aunts were dressing up young men, primarily pre-teens or teenagers, in heavy costumes. Often, the multiple layers of skirts weigh over 20 pound, so the boys hold onto a rope to balance themselves. Their fathers fit the scarf and mask on the boy’s head. During the festivity, the carguero and his family serve food and beverages. Our entrance fee – at pretty much each pastorela? A bottle of tequila!
While the young men donned their heavy costumes, viejos (in costumes meant to make them seem old) “tormented” onlookers.
Arrival of the Virgin Mary.
Negritos, dressed in black masks, whipped, goosed and pushed people – all in good fun, of course!
The dance competition captured everyone’s attention! Village leaders, who formerly participated as dancers, were pulled from the stands to compete with current dancers.
