courtesy of: The Morning News
by Rosalie Klein
The first children’s parade of Carnival 58, the Parada di Blas, or Balloon Parade, featured 9 groups and over 1350 participants who were thoroughly soaked to the skin, along with most spectators, when they finally completed their circuitous route through the streets of San Nicolas on Sunday afternoon, January 22.
“Perhaps we should re-brand this the “Umbrella Parade” mused one parent, who recalled that for the last few years they have experienced the same outpouring of aqueous blessings from above. Undaunted, adorably costumed youngsters and humorously garbed parents splashed their way along, demonstrating their dancing talent and carnival spirit for the enjoyment of those who braved the weather for the spectacle.
Participating groups were Fun Kids, Champagne, TOB Kids, Nos Futuro, Jolly Kids, Impak Car Kids, PEVESA, Little Groovers and Deja Kids. Ten bands accompanied the groups, for the most part staying dry in their special trailers. The group themes were Just Having Kids, Robot, Travel Warriors, Nos Pais, Nos Cultura, (Our Nation, Our Culture,) Jolly Kids Safari, Impak Kids Gone Mad, Masquerade Party and Rumble in the Jungle, respectively.
The Balloon Parade came one month to the day before Ash Wednesday, which will mark the official end of Carnival 58. Four more frenzied weeks of contests and parades are coming up as Aruba indulges in the greatest party of the year.
