Carnaval (with an "A") in Isla Mujeres

These past 3 days were celebrated as "Carnaval" in mostly Catholic regions, including Mexico. It's a time for uninhibited anything-goes partying before the 40 days of sacrifice for Lent. Some famous parties are in Rio de Janiero, New Orleans, Quebec City, and Trinidad. There you'll see eye-popping costumes or nakedness, throbbing music, and widespread public craziness. But many smaller towns have parties that are just as full of joy, even if they're not world-famous. On Isla Mujeres we got swept up in the street dancing, drums, and pure adrenalin of the just-as-crazy locals. The first day is claimed by the very young (3 to 14 years) and the very mature (80??) who take over the narrow lanes to bounce their music --- and other jiggly bits --- from wall to wall.