What is it that makes the “callejoneada” or traditional Mexican wedding processional the pure ecstasy that it is? Is it the abundantly flowing tequila served in little “jarritos?” Could it be the energy blasting from the horns of the mariachis leading the parade? Or maybe the outrageoulsy comical “mojiganga” puppets, the massive caricatures created to look like a giant exaggerated version of the couple? Alright, lets be real, all of those are pretty unique and necessary parts that make the callejoneada what it is but the icing on the cake is Benito the donkey.
Alas yes, the party starts with an ass. But really, Benito is the carrier of all things good including baskets filled to the brim with the jarritos that get distributed to each guest as well as the booze for the jarritos. The callejoneada is an intoxicating event, but I am not talking about intoxication via booze.
It is the music of the mariachis exploding vibrantly in each guests ear like one of the bursting Mexican paper flowers while mojigangas dance in front of the procession with the newly weds. The sun sets in the background, the church bells ring in the distance, and the town can not help but feel the undeniable energy of the parade. Utterly intoxicating to all the senses including the soul, one simply can not help but beam at the sight.
It is said that the donkey is a symbol of humility and peace, which is ironic seeing that such festivities the donkey leads are quite the opposite of peaceful. Regardless, we love our trusty pal Benito and all the joy he carries along in his little baskets.
Written by Anna Louise Judson