... or at least Trujillo had a parade where we proclaimed spring was here. However, we were bundled in our sweaters and hats to watch the 57th Annual Spring Parade. The parade was full of princesses and queens from Trujillo, Thailand, Scotland, Plaza Vea (the store that reminds me of Wal-mart), the movie theatre, and the cell phone company. The famous 'gringas' with batons were there, too. Apparently they are a hot tradition. A bright red fire truck from Washington started the parade, which reminded us of Gypsum and Vail. We also were able to see a beautiful variety of typical Peruvian dances. And, as always, vendors were walking the parade selling chicken feet, drinks, candies, cookies, ice cream and toilet paper.
Nobody owns folding chairs, so benches, chairs and trucks were brought from homes and businesses. These chairs were stretched out alongside the streets. You could sit in one to watch the parade for only 2-3 soles. We were the white people trying to be Peruvians, so we didn't pay to sit. However, we did notice all the people who were sitting were Peruvians... hmmmm... but we are cheap, too. We thought 2-3 soles (less than $1) was outrageous and standing was not a big deal. After 2.5 hours of standing in a tight crowd (drunk guy sleeping on my shoulder, an older guy shouting "Te Amo" at every princess, and Joel guarding the backpack) we thought 2-3 soles was a bargain! Next time!
