It's a brand New Year, and people in south Colombia are prolonging the celebrations by plunging into the largest local carnival. In the city of Pasto, you can find music, dance and a massive parade at the "Blacks and Whites' Carnival", which is offering five days of festivities and revelry. 

Opening on Tuesday, the Blacks and Whites' Carnival is a jubilant occasion for both locals and tourists. For five days, the streets of Pasto are swarming with spectators and pulsing with music. Wednesday's parade was the biggest draw. More than four thousand performers took to the streets. Clad in elaborate costumes, they showcase the dance and music unique to the region.

ADRIANA CARNIVAL PERFORMER "It's a collective performance, so teamwork is very important. Sometimes it's rather exhausting and you might get aches and injuries in your hands and arms. But it doesn't matter to me at all. The love for my hometown helps me overcome the difficulties. It is an occasion for many ethnic groups to display their cultures. The pain is worthwhile."

Held at the beginning of January, the annual event has a history of well over a century. In 2009, it was designated by UNESCO as an oral and intangible heritage. Originating as a religious celebration imported by Spanish settlers, the carnival has become an occasion for people of all ethnic groups to share their varied cultural heritage. Some performers have spent months training for the event.

CRISTINA CARNIVAL PERFORMER "Actually none of us are in this for money. Nobody pays us and nobody asks us to perform. The celebration is all spontaneous. We all find great joy and happiness in the festivities. It feels wonderful to be dancing with all these people. The experience is exhilarating."

The Blacks and Whites' Carnival coincides with Colombia's New Year holiday season. For decades, it has attracted foreign and local tourists alike. Since 2017, the carnival has been trying to further expand its influence.

TOURIST "We came from the north and we came especially for the carnival. It's very exciting. There are many colorful events and the people here are so friendly. I've been to the carnival for several years. Each year they will come up with different manners of celebration. It's a memorable event."

On Saturday, the carnival will reach its climax in the Great Parade, before concluding with a feast of local cuisine on Sunday.