Mardi Gras madness takes over Ajijic on Tuesday, February 17 as townsfolk let off steam in a last blast of pre-Lent frivolity. A full day of rowdy festivity begins with the spectacular Desfile de Carnaval, featuring fanciful floats, costumed revelers, marching bands and charro equestrians that head out from the east end of Constitución between 10 and 11 a.m., for a straight run across town to Seis Esquinas where it doubles back to the plaza via Hidalgo. Spectators know that the parade is approaching when they spot a throng of kids scurrying to escape the masked Sayaca dancers who generate mirth and mayhem by pelting on-lookers with fistfuls of flour and confetti.
Skarnaval 2015, the fourth annual alternative music fest geared for the younger set, will be held in the open air forum at the Ajijic Malecón, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with assorted bands cranking out ska, punk and hip-hop tunes.
The action continues with the Carnaval Nocturno Desfile, departing from the corner of Galeana and Constitución around 7:30 p.m, to roll along the same route as the morning parade. The evening caps off with a dance party at the plaza where a live band churns out saucy cumbia and mambo rhythms.