Eastern Ourense Entroidos

Three municipalities in the east of the Galician province of Ourense (Manzaneda, Viana do Bolo and Vilariño de Conso) stand out for the original characters, the troupes and the colourful costumes of their “entroidos” (carnivals) and for being festivities that interact with each other.

The inhabitants of each village, grouped in parades or “folións” and to the rhythm of bass drums, drums and even farm implements, visit those of neighbouring villages and participate in their festivities for several weeks.  Although the main characters of each of the three 'entroidos' coincide in their brightly coloured ribbon costumes, the huge headdresses adorning their heads and their passion for dancing and jumping, the events have some differences.At Manzaneda, the main role is played by the Mázcaras, who wear their faces uncovered and wear striking, adorned hats. Another special feature is the Comida Popular de Entroido, based on chorizo and other pork products, which is enjoyed after the parades on Tuesday.   At Vilariño de Conso, you will find the Boteiros, with a long stick in their hand and their faces covered with masks featuring sideburns, moustache and beard. The gastronomic event of reference is the Fiesta del Cabrito, coinciding with the big day, Entroido Sunday.Boteiros also play the leading role in Viana do Bolo, but they wear a wooden mask with a diabolical smile. You will also discover the hanging dolls, Lardeiro and Lardeira; the 'fariñadas' or flour wars; the 'fuliadas' or satirical-burlesque representations; floats and other characters such as the mule, the bull or the monstrous 'patumada' from the village of Fornelos de Filloás. The traditional Fiesta de la Androlla, a typical sausage of this region accompanied by cachelos and turnip greens, is also celebrated on Carnival Sunday.