This year's carnivals made it clear that rumba also evolves… and now it comes in a “light” version. Carnivals without excess! The “light” youth doused the party in Las Tablas and Pedasí. Generation Alpha, born since 2011 with a more “light” lifestyle, seems to have dialed down the intensity that characterized these festivities for decades. From the very coronation Friday in Las Tablas, the change was evident: less euphoria, fewer excesses, and groups of young people calm, chatting, and enjoying themselves without alcohol in their hands. Carnivals are no longer what they used to be… or at least, that's what the biggest party animals say after noticing that traditional “poncheras” practically disappeared this year, marking an unexpected turn in the party. Except for the loyal fans who follow the tunas jumping nonstop, the rest of the public remains relaxed, “parking” as if they were in their living room. Those images of drunkenness, hangovers, and tiny outfits are now just a memory; although some cases can still be seen, today they are more the exception than the rule. But what powerfully drew attention was the presence of older adults in full “mojadera,” many in wheelchairs or with canes, participating enthusiastically to relive the times when the carnival was pure madness. A change of mentality or the end of a party era? What was once a display of tight necklines and daring exhibitions has now transformed into a calmer, almost family-friendly atmosphere. The scene in the culecos was also surprising.
