Montevideo Carnival

Montevideo, Uruguay

The Montevideo Carnival 2025 is a 40-day celebration of Uruguayan culture, featuring vibrant Candombe drumming, Murga performances, and colorful parades from late January to early March. It’s the longest carnival in the world, blending African and European traditions in a lively, immersive experience

Information

LOCATION

Uruguay, Montevideo

DATE

January - March, 2025

ALL EVENTS

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Introduction to Montevideo Carnival 2025

The Montevideo Carnival is one of the most vibrant and longest-running carnival celebrations in the world, lasting over 40 days. Held in the capital of Uruguay, this carnival mixes African, European, and Uruguayan traditions to create a unique cultural event that showcases Candombe drums, Murga performances, and dazzling parades.

The 2025 Montevideo Carnival will begin in late January and continue into March, making it one of the most comprehensive carnival experiences you can find globally. Whether you’re drawn by the rhythmic beats of Candombe or the witty satire of Murga, Montevideo’s carnival promises to be an unforgettable cultural immersion.

History and Significance of Montevideo Carnival

Montevideo’s carnival dates back to the 18th century when African slaves brought the rhythms of Candombe to the streets of Uruguay. Over the centuries, European influences—particularly from Spain and Italy—blended with these African traditions, giving birth to modern carnival celebrations that include the famous Murga.

Today, Montevideo Carnival is celebrated as a tribute to diversity and freedom, preserving Uruguay’s unique multicultural heritage. The carnival plays an important role in the country’s identity and is a profound expression of Afro-Uruguayan culture.

What Makes Montevideo Carnival Special?

  • The Longest Carnival in the World: Montevideo Carnival spans 40 days, starting in late January and stretching into March, giving you plenty of time to experience various parades and performances.
  • Candombe Parades: Celebrating the Afro-Uruguayan roots of the carnival, Candombe drum groups perform during the Las Llamadas Parade, a highlight of the carnival.
  • Murga: These are satirical musical theater performances that poke fun at political and social issues, making them an essential cultural expression during the carnival.

Key Dates for Montevideo Carnival 2025

The Montevideo Carnival 2025 will take place from late January to early March, with major events like the Desfile Inaugural (Inaugural Parade) and the Las Llamadas Parade taking place early in the carnival period.

Important Events and Dates to Remember:

  • Late January 2025: Carnival opens with the Desfile Inaugural, marking the beginning of 40 days of festivities.
  • Early February 2025: Las Llamadas Parade takes place, celebrating the tradition of Candombe with drum performances in the streets of Montevideo.
  • March 2025: The carnival closes with final performances and celebrations, wrapping up this cultural extravaganza.

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Main Events and Parades

1. Desfile Inaugural (Inaugural Parade)

This event kicks off the Montevideo Carnival with an explosion of color, music, and dancing. The parade is held along Avenida 18 de Julio, Montevideo’s main avenue. Performers in extravagant costumes, floats, and street dancers fill the streets as the city comes alive for the carnival season.

  • Where: Avenida 18 de Julio
  • When: Late January 2025

2. Las Llamadas Parade

The Las Llamadas Parade is one of the most important and iconic events of the Montevideo Carnival. This event celebrates the Afro-Uruguayan Candombe tradition, with drummers parading through the historic neighborhoods of Barrio Sur and Palermo. The rhythmic beats of tamboriles (drums) fill the streets as performers in vibrant costumes pay homage to their African heritage.

  • Where: Barrio Sur and Palermo, Montevideo
  • When: Early February 2025

3. Murga Performances

Murga is a unique Uruguayan performance style that combines music, theater, and satire. Groups of performers in elaborate makeup and costumes sing witty, satirical songs that address political, social, and cultural issues. The performances are held throughout the carnival, often at Teatro de Verano, and are a favorite among locals.

  • Where: Teatro de Verano and Tablados (open-air stages across the city)
  • When: Throughout the carnival

4. Tablados

Throughout the carnival, temporary open-air stages known as Tablados are set up in different neighborhoods. These stages host a variety of carnival performances, including Murga, Parodistas, Revistas, and Humoristas. The Tablados provide an intimate way to experience the carnival, and they are a beloved part of the Montevideo Carnival tradition.

  • Where: Various neighborhoods across Montevideo
  • When: Throughout the carnival

Music and Cultural Elements at Montevideo Carnival

Candombe: The Heartbeat of Montevideo Carnival

Candombe is the rhythmic drumming tradition brought to Uruguay by African slaves. Today, it is one of the cornerstones of the Montevideo Carnival, particularly during Las Llamadas. The drummers, known as Comparsas, perform in groups, dressed in colorful costumes and dancing to the syncopated rhythms of tamboriles. This tradition has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

Murga: Satirical Musical Theater

Murga combines political satire, comedy, and music to critique society. These performances are often seen as the soul of Montevideo’s carnival, providing witty commentary on the year’s events through song and performance. The Murga groups compete throughout the carnival, and their performances are loved for their sharp wit and clever wordplay.

Travel Tips for Attending Montevideo Carnival 2025

1. Best Places to Stay

Montevideo has a wide range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. The best areas to stay for the carnival are:

  • Centro: Close to the action of the Inaugural Parade and Murga performances.
  • Barrio Sur and Palermo: Ideal for those looking to be close to the Las Llamadas Parade and the heart of Candombe culture.

2. How to Get There

Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport (MVD) offers direct flights from major cities across South America and connections from Europe and North America. Once you arrive, the city is well-connected by buses, and taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available.

3. What to Wear

Since Montevideo Carnival takes place during the South American summer, pack light, breathable clothing for the daytime. Many carnival-goers wear comfortable outfits for walking and dancing in the streets. If you plan to attend night events, bring a light jacket, as it can get cooler in the evening.

4. Plan Ahead

  • Tickets: Some events, like Murga performances at Teatro de Verano, require tickets. It’s best to purchase these in advance, as they sell out quickly.
  • Safety: While Montevideo is generally safe, always take basic precautions when attending crowded events, such as keeping your belongings secure.

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FAQs About Montevideo Carnival 2025

When is the Montevideo Carnival 2025?

The Montevideo Carnival will begin in late January and continue through early March 2025, with major events like the Inaugural Parade and Las Llamadas Parade taking place in the first few weeks.

Where do the main events of Montevideo Carnival take place?

The main events are spread across Avenida 18 de Julio, Barrio Sur, and Palermo, with performances also happening in Teatro de Verano and Tablados (open-air stages) throughout Montevideo.

Is Montevideo Carnival family-friendly?

Yes! Montevideo Carnival is a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for all ages, from lively parades to cultural performances that are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Conclusion: Experience the Montevideo Carnival 2025

  • The Montevideo Carnival 2025 offers a rich, immersive cultural experience, blending centuries-old traditions with modern performances. From the powerful drumming of Candombe to the clever humor of Murga, this carnival provides a unique opportunity to experience Uruguay’s cultural heritage firsthand. With its friendly atmosphere, diverse events, and welcoming locals, Montevideo Carnival is a must-see for anyone looking to enjoy a carnival that celebrates both tradition and innovation. Plan your trip now and experience the world’s longest carnival like never before.

     

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