Carnival in French Guiana

Carnival parade in Cayenne

Carnival in French Guiana is a major event. Its style is described as Afro-Caribbean.[1] A moveable holiday, it takes place between Epiphany and Ash Wednesday, ending on Mardi Gras.[2] Known internationally for its Paré-masqué balls and its emblematic character, the Touloulou, it is considered the longest carnival in the world.

The participants – French, Creole, Brazilian and Chinese people[3] – dress in vibrant costumes.[4] Main events include a parade and a burlesque-style marriage.

Young Creoles at Kourou's Carnival parade, 2007
  1. ^ Brown & Read 2003, p. 57.
  2. ^ West 2003, p. 95.
  3. ^ "Amazing Festivals The Carnival of French Guiana". Kreol International Magazine. 6 May 2014. Retrieved 16 May 2015.
  4. ^ Cheng 2011, p. 163.