Carnival Parade 2006

By D. Lesley

Carnival is a fantastic, colourful time of year, with parades all over Portugal . EISL always participate in the Carnaval Infantil , when children from schools across the cámara meet in Loulé to parade around the streets and open the event.

This year Reception to Year Three took part, and it was interesting that photos of our students from last year were used to advertise the event, Loulé's 100 th carnival. The preparations started soon after the Christmas Nativity play. We researched books and internet sites for good ideas, and then meetings were held to decide on the most appropriate outfit.

The choice for 2006 was Native Americans – we had been Native Americans once before, but we never made it to Loulé because of the bad storms! We try to choose something adaptable for the weather, as it can be hot, cold or wet at this time of year.

We try not to spend too much on materials, and try and use the school uniform so that special purchases are not necessary. Lots of people helped with the sewing and the children loved painting their outfits. We also needed to practise in the days before Carnival, and had great fun war dancing in the sports field!

When the big day came we were all relieved to see blue skies! We started with a parade around the school, in which we were also joined by pre-school. Then it was off to Loulé in the coach, to meet with the hundreds of other students.

We had a great time whooping and dancing up and down the Avenida, and everyone returned to school having had an excellent time. Each year we win prizes for the children - sweets and streamers that they take home.

The school won a trophy this year and a medal last year, and you can see both are on display in the office. In addition, the Sixth Form won free tickets to get into the main Carnival at the weekend. A big thanks to everyone involved for making it yet again another splendid event and we're all looking forward to Carnival 2007!