Hundreds in Peru mark Clown Day in hopes of getting the holiday official recognition [View all]

With their unmistakable red noses, extravagant shoes, colorful outfits, and unique makeup, hundreds of clowns on Saturday gathered in the streets of Peru’s capital to mark Clown Day, a holiday they have sought for years to gain official recognition from the government. Every May 25, Lima hosts a colorful parade that includes awards for the best costumes, makeup, routine, and improvisation. (AP Video by Cesar Barreto, produced by Mauricio Muñoz)

Updated 6:25 PM CDT, May 25, 2024

LIMA, Peru (AP) — With their unmistakable red noses, extravagant shoes, colorful outfits and unique makeup, hundreds of clowns Saturday gathered in the streets of Peru’s capital to mark Clown Day. They have sought for years to gain official recognition of the day.

The colorful parade in Lima, which includes awards for the best costumes, makeup, routine and improvisation, takes place every year on May 25.

. . .

Chininin said the official recognition would give clowns access to government funds and performance spaces overseen by municipalities and local communities, as well as open the possibility of establishing schools to teach the art of clowning.

Members of Parliament have not yet discussed a proposed bill to create the holiday. Chininín, 42, estimated that about 200,000 people across Peru work as clowns, including at children’s events and the circus.

More:
https://apnews.com/article/peru-clowns-parade-holiday-parliament-7a4ac339df199727883f4247ff56fbe6

Why not combine it with National Election Day?