pasacalles

Pasacalles is a form of public street performance and parade common in the Spanish-speaking world. It refers to a moving procession of musicians, dancers, and sometimes actors or puppeteers that travels through city streets to signal the start of a festival, entertain crowds, or accompany a larger event. The term derives from the Spanish pasa (to pass through) and calles (streets).

A typical pasacalles features a musical ensemble—often brass bands, percussion groups, or traditional drums—paired with choreographed dance and colorful costumes. Groups may carry banners, puppets, or flags, and audiences are encouraged to join or follow along. The route is planned in advance and can run through several districts, ending at a designated square or festival site. Performances last from several minutes to several hours depending on the context.

Origins and use: Pasacalles are common in Spain and Latin America as part of patron saint festivals, harvest fairs, carnivals, and other public celebrations. In some places the term describes an opening segment of a parade that announces the event, while in others it denotes a stand-alone street show performed ahead of the main procession.

Cultural significance: Pasacalles contribute to communal identity, urban culture, and tourism, and provide a platform for traditional music and dance. They are closely related to parades, street theater, comparsas, and other forms of public performance.