Orchidea parade marches down Simon Bolivar this morning, kicking off Carnival in Cuenca

The annual Orchidea parade, featuring floats, dancers, costumed performers and comedy acts, is expected to attract thousands of spectators in El Centro this morning. Sponsored by the Prefecture of Azuay and the Federation of Barrios, the parade begins about 10 at Parque San Blas, heading west on Simon Bolivar, ending at San Sebastian Plaza.

Marchers in last year’s Orchidea parade. Photo: El Tiempo

Between participants and spectators, organizers expect a crowd of 20,000 to 25,000.

Neighborhood organizations compete with each other for top prizes in the parade. The funniest and most outrageous acts usually take home the prize money.

Dozens are other Carnival events are scheduled today in the area. One of the largest, featuring live music, dancers and lots of foam, begins at 8 tonight in the central plaza in Ricaurte.

Consult local newspapers or pick up a schedule from an iTur office for information about other Carnival events.