The most famous Carnival happens in the small town of Las Tablas, in the Los Santos province. The town divides into two friendly rival 'streets' - Calle Arriba ('upper street') and Calle Abajo ('lower street'). Each one chooses a Carnival queen and competes to build the most beautiful float and the most exciting parade.
During the day, big trucks called 'culecos' drive slowly through the streets spraying water from giant hoses. Children scream and dance underneath, soaked to the skin. With temperatures often above 30°C, the cold water is wonderful.
At night, the parades begin. The Carnival queens ride on giant decorated floats covered in feathers, flowers and lights. Musicians play típico music and reggae. People dance in the streets until the early hours.
Carnival ends on a day called 'Martes de Carnaval' (Carnival Tuesday). The biggest, most spectacular parade of the year takes place that evening. Families wave goodbye to Carnival and head home tired, happy and (usually) still a bit damp.