I always thought that the Feast of Corpus Christi is a somber affair. In Quillacollo in Bolivia there was indeed a short religious procession to the cathedral, with ice-cream and beer vendors already going about their business while the priest was talking about Mr Jesus. But most people had come for the festival that ensued with several hours of dance and music bands parading through the streets.
On that day, I was with Edward Allen, whom I had met through Couchsurfing and who took all the following photos. You can see that he is not as shy as I am about photographing people. Probably because I was with him in case somebody wanted to attack or sue him.
The main street is adorned with several large paintings made of sand and flower petals, depicting scenes from the Bible and other religious symbols. By the way, Edward was one of the few people I have met who is an even more radical atheist than me.
When you look at the shoes of the next band, keep in mind that they had to walk, dance and play around town for at least 4 or 5 hours in them.
Yes, the lady is drinking a can of beer while performing.
But this huge event was only the trial run for the festivities to celebrate the Virgin of Urkupiña, the patron saint of Bolivia’s national integrity, in August.
You have to admire how Bolivia combines dancing girls in very, very short skirts with devout worshiping of an alleged virgin.
The Happy Hermit 
Great photographs ! :)
I should meet up with photographers more often or just ask for photographers who live in the same town to contribute their photos to my blog. Because I personally actually prefer traveling without taking photos and focusing on writing.
Totally agree, we always forget to take photos when travelling as we prefer just taking everything in and we always return home and think ‘crap we’ve got no photos of that place we went’
And in some situations, I think camera would destroy the bond I have with people. For example when I sit in the park and share my food with a homeless guy. That whole experience would suffer if I asked him if I can take a photo of him. But such encounters are some of the best stories.
I love how these photos show such a wide spectrum of people. Looks like an amazing event.
Great article Andreas! Enjoy Peru. (and all that it has to offer you!)
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