The Festival of Colors in Spanish Fork has become a huge event that Utahns come to from miles around. If you haven’t been you have to go. It’s a cool cultural experience where you can learn about another religion and culture and have a lot of fun at the same time. But if you’re a first timer here are some helpful tips to make sure you have the best time possible!
1.Wear white and be a walking blank canvas!
Part of the fun of the Festival of Colors is seeing the multicolored designs that the chalk leaves on your body and clothes. The lighter the colors you wear the easier it will be to see. White T-shirts, shorts, shoes, or bandanas showcase the bright colors really well. Also, other festival-goers will be more inclined to throw their colors on you if they see you wearing light colored clean clothes.
2. If you have sensitive eyes or trouble breathing, wear protection.
If you have trouble breathing or sensitive eyes and worry that the festival of colors may not be for you, don’t worry. If you’re determined to go there are some precautions you can take to make sure you still have an enjoyable experience with out choking on chalk or constantly tearing up. Sunglasses or eyewear is super helpful to keep chalk out of your eyes and having a bandana over you mouth can help keep chalk out of your lungs.
3.Wear something that can get ruined.
Don’t wear your favorite shirt or something that was expensive because it will get stained. The chalk does come out of most things but it does often stain light colored clothing, and even sometimes hair, so be aware of that when you get dressed to go this weekend.
4.Share the love and kindly throw color on other festival-goers, people will return the favor.
One of the best parts about the Festival of Colors is the community vibe the event has. Everyone is really friendly and most people will share their chalk colors with you by throwing some on you, patting you on the back or giving you a vibrant high five. We encourage you to do the same!
5. Bring a bag or backpack that can be zipped or sealed.
You’re going to need to bring things such as your sunglasses, bandana, a water bottle, some money and your phone so you’ll probably bring a bag to put all of that in. I would highly recommend bringing a bag that could be zipped or closed off so you don’t get chalk on everything, because it does get EVERYWHERE.
6. Don’t wash off with water right away, blow off the chalk first.
If you wash off with water right away it will turn into a brightly colored paste that is more likely to stain and muck up your drain or paint anything you touch. The best way to clean it off is to blow the chalk off first with a hairdryer or something like that and then rinse off in a shower.
7. Remember to be respectful, it is a religious ceremony.
Be respectful, you’re at a temple and there are people at this event who are there for religious purposes, not only the fun. Be kind, and soak it all in, you’re a visitor.