The start of the carnival holiday in Ecuador has been characterized by a lively cultural atmosphere, with thousands of Ecuadorians taking to the streets to participate in traditional festivities. On the afternoon of February 13, 2023, a carnival parade in Riobamba was briefly interrupted when attendees caught two individuals stealing mobile phones from festival-goers. The quick response from the crowd led to the suspects being detained and assaulted in public before local authorities and the National Police intervened.

After this incident, the festive parade resumed its course, allowing the celebration to continue. According to municipal figures, the event concluded successfully at the Concha Acústica, drawing approximately 8,000 attendees who enjoyed music programs and the traditional water and foam games that are popular during carnival. This year's festivities not only showcased Ecuador’s vibrant cultural heritage but also highlighted the strong community spirit that emerges during such events, as citizens actively protect one another from crime.

In addition to the celebrations in Riobamba, hotel reservations in coastal areas like Esmeraldas have nearly reached full capacity due to the influx of tourists for the carnival holiday. This surge in visitors showcases the significance of carnival in Ecuador, not just as a cultural event but also as a major driver for local tourism and economic activity, reinforcing the festival's role in the social and economic fabric of the country.