Amazon River Sun: Khaing and Kwanita take first place in largest Carnival Parade to date

Dozens of floats in Bloodbath Bay
during the judging process.
Photos by Persephone Bolero-Trenton

By Persephone Bolero-Trenton

AMAZON — Xoco Chieftess Khaing and Kwanita of the Tapirape took the top prize in this year’s annual Carnival Parade.

The tied first-place winners were followed by a three-way tie for second, with Shui, Kerity and Captain McNoLegs going home with the silver.

Chieftess Khaing in her Xoco-themed float.

This year’s event was likely the largest in its history, with dozens of people entering floats. The competition was intense, and a source familiar with the judges’ decision told the Amazon River Sun that they had trouble settling on a first, second and third place winner.

In order to select the winners before the sun went supernova, two first-place and three second-place winners were selected.

Kart of the Tapirape had a 'revenge of the flamingos' theme.

“Congratulations to everyone who participated. It was great to see all the beautiful floats!" Shui said after the winners were announced.

Catten Carter of the Tapirape, the lead organizer of the event, said that he had never seen so much creativity in one place.

Kwanita's float, photo courtesy of Kwanita

Kwanita told the Sun that her float represents the "living lung of the world."

"The jaguar symbolizes the protection, resilience, and power of nature. It is a message of celebration, but also of awareness. The jaguar, the jungle, the drums—everything celebrates the energy, culture, and beauty of the forest," Kwanita said.

Whispering Wind, shaman of the Tapirape, was also impressed by the variety of floats.

“All flotillas brought such bright, joyful energy to the river. The colors danced, the creativity shimmered, and the whole thing felt like a celebration floating straight from the heart of the jungle. You showed spirit, imagination, and that special spark that makes the whole crowd smile,” Wind said.