Chichi

Nic and I arrived in Chichicastenango after a 40 minute microbus ride where I sat on Nic's lap, but they still charged us both the fee. Chichi already is a special place as it is the largest and oldest market in Central America, with a large artisan aspect. We had heard that the feria there was something to behold and indeed it was stimulus overload in the most wonderful way. 

The church was elaborately decorated and had the Saints Behind the Glass on full display out front; huge colorful feathers reminding patrons to pay honors.

The street scene from the steps of the church on the other end of the plaza: candy vendors making thier way through densely packed crowds of traditionally dressed Guatemalans; in the middle elaborately costumed locals dance to the tunes of three stages right next to each other each playing different tunes; the pole for Los Palos Voladores; The Pole Fliers and finally the church steps.

In the 10 minutes that we hung out on the steps probably 50 feet of firecrackers were set off and 10 bombs were launched into the air. The steps were littered inches deep and crews were on patrol with buckets of water just incase things got out of hand. Notice the people on the steps shielding themselves with baskets; stray firecrackers fly some distance from the rolls and explode seemingly at bystanders.

This 100 foot pole is set up for Los Palos Voladores; The Pole Fliers, as mentioned earlier. Apparently men climb this janky ladder to a janky pivoting point at the top, tie themselves to the pivoting apparatus and leap from the top, setting the apparatus spinning, flying over the crowd, barely brushing the trees and buildings around. We waited nearly 5 hours for these guys to do their thing to no avail. By 4 we had to catch our respective busses outa there. 

A parade of the costumed locals through the market. They marched to a marimba that was being carried by a man on each end. I think these guys represent the Spanish that came to Guatemala.

Enjoying the spoils of the feria; a Guatemalan donut.