Carnival in French Guiana

[2] Known internationally for its Paré-masqué balls and its emblematic character, the Touloulou, it is considered the longest carnival in the world.

This celebration is a cultural tradition of the Guianan Creole, its origin traced to carnival customs practiced in Europe.

[6] Its occurrence varies, prescribed by the religious calendar and taking place between the Epiphany in early January, and Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent.

Carnival Queen and most famous character is the Touloulou, an elegantly dressed lady who wears a petticoat, hood, Domino mask, and long gloves, so that none of her skin is visible.

Other traditional characters include the Zombi baréyé, a zombie character; Jwé farin, who is dressed in white trousers, shirt, pointed hat, and mask, representing a baker; Bobi, is dressed in old potato sacks and appears as a bear led by a leash; Karolin, representing a rich woman with gold who is jealous and protects other women; Lanmò, who represents death, is dressed in white; Soussouris, who represents the bat, is a winged character who commonly wears black or two tones, and is renowned for its vampire behavior; and Diab rouj (red devil), who dresses in red and black.

Brazilian groups have similar costumes to those encountered at Rio Carnival, while the country's Asian community incorporates dragons in the festivities.

[9] Tuesday, the last day of the festival, is marked by the appearance of the main spirit of King Vaval, who is considered by the locals to be "the devil and soul of carnival".

[5][9] On this occasion the dancers are dressed in black or red coloured costumes adorned with horns and tails and holding pitchforks.

The effigy is then burnt in the night and on the following day, Ash Wednesday, people wear black and white dresses to mourn the passing of Vival.