Annual Donkey Festival in San Antero, Colombia

SOURCE npr.org
The annual Donkey Festival in San Antero, Colombia celebrates donkeys with races, a rodeo, and a beauty pageant. The festival began as an Easter procession and now features donkeys adorned in outrageous costumes. The event attracts tourists and aims to raise awareness about the declining donkey population due to industrialization and the demand for their hides in China.

Key Points

  • Donkey Festival in San Antero features races, a rodeo, and a beauty pageant
  • Donkeys are adorned in outrageous costumes during the festival
  • The event aims to raise awareness about the declining donkey population globally

Pros

  • Celebrates donkeys and their importance in Colombian culture
  • Attracts tourists and boosts local economy

Cons

  • Criticism from Roman Catholic officials for potentially mocking Holy Week
  • Threat to donkey population due to demand for their hides in China