Roar, Smoke, and Tradition! Everything About the "Cabalgata de la Gasolina" in Villa de Álvarez

If you’ve ever been to Colima during February, you know the atmosphere shifts. The scent of dust, the sound of brass bands, and the heat radiating from "La Petatera" announce that the Fiestas Charrotaurinas de Villa de Álvarez are at their peak. But there is one specific event that breaks the mold—swapping horseshoes for tires and neighs for the roar of engines: The Cabalgata de la Gasolina (The Gasoline Parade).

📍 The Origin: From Hooves to Horsepower

Tradition in "La Villa" dictates that horseback parades (cabalgatas) are the soul of the party. However, the Cabalgata de la Gasolina was born as a playful, modern response from transport workers, mechanics, and motor enthusiasts.

What started as a small parade of drivers and friends who wanted to join the festivities in their own way has evolved into one of the most anticipated events for the youth and families looking for something different from the traditional daytime horse parades. It is the moment where technology and folk celebration shake hands.

🛠️ What Makes This Parade Special?

Unlike the morning parades where equestrian order prevails, the Gasolina is controlled chaos and pure creativity. Here, you won't see saddles, but rather:

Modified Vehicles: From extreme 4x4 Jeeps to "chopped" VW Beetles and classic pickup trucks.

Sound at the Limit: The famous "car audio" builds compete to see who can make the windows on Benito Juárez Avenue vibrate the most.

Costumes and Humor: Many participants decorate their vehicles or wear costumes, turning the route into a rolling carnival.

The Community: It’s a massive meeting point for biker clubs, classic car collectors, and people who just want to "cruise" in their most eye-catching ride.

🛣️ The Route: The Heart of Villa de Álvarez

No post would be complete without mentioning the path. The parade usually kicks off near the Jardín Núñez in Colima, heading straight toward the iconic Benito Juárez Avenue.

This avenue is where the magic happens. Sidewalks overflow with families bringing their own chairs, coolers, and festive spirit. The climax occurs as the convoy reaches the fairgrounds and, of course, passes in front of the majestic La Petatera Bullring—a national cultural heritage site built entirely of wood, petates, and ropes.

Important Note: Safety is key. Although the name suggests "gasoline," local authorities always emphasize responsible drinking and driving to ensure the event remains family-friendly.

💡 Pro-Tips for Enjoying the Event

If you’re planning to attend (or writing to invite others), keep these points in mind:

Arrive Early: The best spots on the sidewalk are claimed hours in advance.

Ear Protection: If you’re bringing small children, remember that the engine roars and exhaust pops can be very loud.

Stay Hydrated: The Colima heat is relentless, even at sunset.

Respect the Pedestrians: If you’re participating with a vehicle, remember it’s a family parade—keep the stunts in check!

🏁 Conclusion: The "Villalvarense" Identity

The Cabalgata de la Gasolina doesn’t replace the equestrian tradition; it complements it. It is proof that the traditions of Villa de Álvarez are alive and evolving with its people. It’s the day when chrome shines under the city lights and the pride of being a "pata salada" (salty foot) is felt with every rev of the engine.