Argentine

Carnival of
La Chaya in
La Rioja
By Valentina Granados

Elementary 5
 Description
Its origins refer to the celebrations of the people of
the north. For this reason, the idea of ​three days of
liberation is repeated. Barriers, social classes, ages
and genders disappear: no one can be oblivious to
the greatest celebration that Riojans experience
once a year: “La Chaya”, the ancestral carnival that
manages to bring together crowds who come in
search of music, flour and basil .
 Origin
It is an old religious tradition
of the old native towns of the
city, where as part of the cult,
the brothers honor
Pachamama by joyfully
throwing water and corn flour.
Indeed, chayar means
surrounding yourself with
water, just as rain does with
mother earth.

When is celebrated?
It is celebrated during the month of
February starting on February 8.
This festival lasts several days and
is closely related to the carnival
festivities, but with characteristics
and traditions specific to the region.
What people
participate?
The Chaya Carnival in La Rioja is a
community celebration in which
people of all ages and from diverse
origins participate since it is the union
of the inhabitants. for example: local
inhabitants, Comparsas, Artists and
musicians, Tourists and cultural groups
Thank You