A few months ago, after an invitation from Alexandra—a dear friend—I returned to my homeland, to laugh, to dance, to let go… I returned to experience the Baile de Inocentes in San Gabriel, that charming city in northern Ecuador that always holds a surprise. This celebration, held every year with so much love, color, and humor, is one of those events where every moment is felt, enjoyed… and truly lived.
This year was special. I dressed up as a bride. Yes, a bride—with a veil, a white dress, and an improvised bouquet in hand. The moment I put it on, I felt myself stepping into a playful, bold, and free character. I laughed like I hadn’t in ages, let myself be wrapped in the joyful madness that fills the streets, and felt like a living part of this magical tradition.
🎉 A Parade of Characters That Spark the Imagination
Each character has its own story, its own essence, its own beautiful madness. The clown, for example, is the mischievous soul of the celebration. He goes back and forth making people laugh, playing pranks, dancing with everyone. And how could I forget the Chapiquita—a cheeky, feminine character dressed in vibrant costumes, often played by men wearing wigs, exaggerated makeup, and an attitude that draws every gaze.
The Devil also makes an appearance, of course—dressed in red with horns, moving through the crowd with a mix of mischief and protection. The Monkey, covered from head to toe in a furry costume, jumps, swings, and leaps as if he truly came from the jungle.
And this year I saw something that touched my heart: a couple of sweetly dressed grandparents, walking hand in hand through the crowd. They represented a lifelong love. There was also the group of grooms—charmingly and comically overdressed—dancing through the streets with their “brides.” I felt like part of the troupe when someone took my hand and said, “Let’s go, we’re getting married today.” I just smiled.
💃 Dancing with the Soul, Laughing from the Heart
Dance is the true language of this celebration. No one stands still. Local bands play pasacalles, cumbias, sanjuanitos… and everyone lets go. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know how to dance. Just follow the rhythm, the steps of your neighbor, or the pull of a costumed character spinning you around in laughter.
I danced with strangers, with costumed children, with women who had been part of this for years. I felt pure joy—like childhood joy. A joy without judgment, without worry. I danced as if it were my wedding day… but with life itself.
🎭 A Carnival with a Community Heart
The Baile de Inocentes isn’t just a party—it’s a living tradition. It’s celebrated every year with the participation of neighborhoods, communities, schools, institutions… everyone joins in to bring the parade and the dance to life. It’s prepared with time, with love, with devotion.
And there’s something that moves me deeply: this carnival isn’t a show to be watched from the sidewalk. It’s an open invitation to participate, to be part of it, to let go of control and simply be. It’s as if, for one day, all of San Gabriel becomes a grand stage of freedom.
✨ A Celebration That Heals and Unites
I hadn’t laughed that much in a long time. I realized I needed that collective laughter. I had been carrying things—fatigue, nostalgia… but that day I emptied the heaviness and filled myself with color. There’s nothing like seeing your people celebrate, transform, share joy unconditionally.
And as I danced with a Devil, hugged a Chapiquita, and took pictures with another improvised groom, I realized this tradition holds a healing power. It reminds us that laughing, playing, and celebrating are also acts of resistance—and of love.
🌟 Come Back Every Year… Because the Soul Needs It
If you ever feel disconnected, stressed, or simply longing for something unique, come to San Gabriel and feel the Baile de Inocentes. I promise you’ll return with a lighter heart and a smile etched into your soul.
I’m already counting down the days until next January. Because I know that there—among music, costumes, and beautiful madness—I’ll find myself once again.
Article written by Lia – Holistic Coaching | Instagram: @lia_hec | WhatsApp: +593 979881234 | Photos: personal file
