In its different versions, attendees have enjoyed in Plaza Bogotá, colorful expressions of Chilean and Latin American music, as well as comparsa parades.
This Carnival is an initiative of the theater company La Empresa, who coordinate the participation of comparsas (traditionally costumed street marchers) from all over Chile. More than 2,000 artists, including dancers and musicians, fill in Sierra Bella street of color, from Avenida Matta to Ñuble. In 2023, the Carnival celebrated its 31 years of history with three days of celebration on October 6th, 7th and 8th.
In February 2024, the cultists of this festival received the “Santiago Construye Historias” award / Santiago Builds Stories, established by the Municipality of Santiago to recognize those who stand out for their contribution, from their respective areas, to the commune and capital city and neighborhood. The recognition is granted in the context of the anniversary of the Foundation of Santiago.
History
A tradition of this festival has been the tribute paid to outstanding women for their contribution to culture, who are elected Carnival Queens. During these years, some queens were Margot Loyola, Gabriela Medina, Maite Fernández, Rosa Ramírez, Cecilia Pantoja, Maitén Montenegro, Mónica Carrasco, Elsa Poblete, Maggie Lay and Palmenia Pizarro, among others.
Over time, the Historic Carnival of San Antonio de Padua has enriched its local and family character with the participation of carnival schools and groups of zamba, batucada, caporales sambos, diabladas and murgas.
Lira, 1726, Santiago.