Playing Fair and Being Kind

March 4^th and 5^th was a national holiday in Ecuador—Carnaval. This holiday is apparently celebrated worldwide although only regionally in the United States, primarily in New Orleans, where it is called Mardi Gras. In Ecuador, it marks the beginning of Lent and also honors the indigenous Kichwa holiday of Paucar Huatay, the end of the solar year.

As with holidays in general, Ecuadorians go all out to celebrate! Carnaval is marked by parades, music, and dancing around the country, and the partying begins on the weekend before the actual holiday. The most notable Carnaval tradition in Ecuador is the widespread use of espuma, brand name Carioca, which is a nontoxic foam that is sprayed on anyone out on the streets during Carnaval. In addition, some people spray water or drop water balloons or eggs or colored flour on passerbys! Tourists are advised to…