The Covid-19 pandemic and the Diablada Pillareña

Abstract

Introduction. This research focuses on the study of the major festival of the Santiago de Píllaro canton, called "La Diablada Pillareña", which was declared as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Ecuador, therefore, its importance is considerable for its inhabitants. However, after the arrival of the covid-19 pandemic, which unleashed the abrupt interruption of social and cultural events, this festival was canceled, causing upset and discontent in the Píllaro community that awaits its reactivation. Objective. Socialize the results of the relationship of the Covid-19 pandemic and the Diablada Pillareña festival. Methodology. The development of the research will be mixed, due to the desire to be part of the traditional festival of Diablada Pillareña and live it in all its different forms, putting the health and safety of both the tourist and its inhabitants first, thus promoting tourism development and the rescue of the intangible cultural heritage of the canton Santiago de Píllaro. Results. The Diablada Pillareña is essential in the economic, cultural and tourist development of the Píllaro canton, being almost entirely the entrepreneurs and artisans who trust this festival to create, innovate and commercialize their products or services, creating safe alternatives to tourist entertainment during the pandemic. Conclusion. The Diablada Pillareña forges a bond of cultural identity with the Píllaro’s population, likewise, supports economic and tourist growth, so it is necessary to know other ways to live the festival safely during the pandemic.