Fabulous festivals in Paraguay

Festivals are an important aspect of Paraguay's national character, as they are in much of South America. Every spring, just before Lent, a version of carnaval erupts onto the streets of Encarnación, affectionately known as the "Pearl of the South." It takes place over several weekends in February, and is a celebration of glitz, glamour, and rhythmic beats led by women bedecked in feathers and sparkling costumes. Visitors may come across Paraguay's Bolivian Urkupia Festival, which is a slightly more humble occasion, around the end of August. This cheerful festival, championed by the country's Bolivian immigrants, commemorates the Virgin Mary of Urkupia with folk dancing and singing in traditional clothing.

In addition, you can participate in other major festivals such as Dia de San Blas - This festival is held on February 3 every year to honor the patron saint of Paraguay. Verbana de San Juan - Held on May 28 and 29, this event is a traditional fair that celebrates Saint John. Rooted in the Christian faith, the festival is both religious and cultural, with quirky rituals like walking on hot embers to watch. Trans-Chaco Protest - Active since 1970, this annual rally is held in early July. It is very loved by the people of Paraguay and is second only to the national sport, football. The main stage of the rally covers the entire Gran Chaco, a vast and difficult terrain. Witnessing some of the vehicles trying to pass is a good way to get a feel for the harshness of the area's landscape.