Lavagem do Bonfim.

Wow, what a party.

It started out in the lower city with a ceremony at this church, which then became a parade to the Bonfim church out on Itagipe peninsula. You can see members of the famous Carnaval group “Filhos de Ghandy” in full regalia standing up on the truck in this photo. They were a big part of the festivities. It was a several-kilometer procession, though walking takes even longer when you’re sort of shuffling/dancing your way through the streets. All kinds of music groups were moving along the procession, which went through a bunch of neighborhoods which I usually would just cruise through on a bus.

Because there was so much movement in the streets, I felt a lot more comfortable snapping shots of neighborhoods which are usually deserted and slightly sketchy. This street that runs from the upper to lower city is called the Ladeira da Montanha and has these interesting buildings tucked into the hillside.

Anyway, back to the party…madness, crowds, great music, tasty food, cold beer, etc. We got out to Bonfim and the party was focused out there.

Glad I got a taste of this kind of massive street party, since I’m not sticking around for Carnaval. I’ll add more later, and I have more photos.

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