Unstaged Carnival
The carnival in Cabo Verde is not (yet) a tourist attraction. People in Mindelo organise it for themselves. There is no merchandise, no commercials, and very few tourists. It is an unforgettable experience to find yourself in a place and situation you do not understand, and to try to take photographs and make sense of it at the same time.
thanks to 2025 edition of the Cabo Verde photography workshop with pokochajfotografie.pl
A workshop where carnival decorations are built.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
Mandinga. A man dressed as Jesus drinks grog with someone dressed as devil. They've been walking for four hours already, with at least two more to go before the procession reaches the sea.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
The crowd watching an “unofficial” training carnival parade. Spectators also seem to be testing their masks—and their patience, before the real event on Tuesday.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
It is three in the afternoon. The painting for the Mandinga is almost done. A final check before joining the parade, which will last until sunset.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
Downtown Mindelo. Typical chaos. The sea and the fish market is about a hundred meters ahead, behind, the big market.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
Early in the morning. On every corner there seem to someone waiting for something.
Santo Antão, Cabo Verde, March 2025
Late in the night at the sidewalk, waiting for another group of dancers.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
Painting before Mandinga. Oil mixed with tar. It doesn't come off easily afterward.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
Evening. Somewhere near the main square, a beer stand. In a moment, another carnival procession will begin.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025
Mandinga. The costumed participants often pose and fool around for the camera, ruining every attempt to make a meaningful photo.
São Vicente, Cabo Verde, March 2025