The article discusses the emergence of South American Carnival as a blend of indigenous rituals, pre-Lenten European celebrations, and African memories brought by slavery. It emphasizes that Carnival is much more than a simple festivity; it serves as a space for symbolic resistance and community affirmation against colonial power, leading to the development of a lasting popular identity. This rich and mixed tradition has survived for centuries, intertwining music, dance, and satire to reinterpret imposed social hierarchies and beliefs.

In particular, the article highlights various regional expressions of Carnival, such as the Diablada in Oruro, which synthesizes Andean worldviews and Catholic devotion, and the Batalla de Flores in Barranquilla, which transforms the street into a stage for collective memory. Additionally, Carnival in Rio has transformed samba into a contemporary mass urban spectacle. Recognizing the social cohesion and international projection capabilities of these events, states have embraced their significance, leading UNESCO to declare several Carnival celebrations as Intangible Cultural Heritage. This recognition has further solidified the prestige of these festivals, boosting tourism and motivating private investment alongside sustained urban planning with a regional vision.