CARNAVAL DE PONCE

It is the most important carnival in Puerto Rico. Its first edition dates back to 1858. The vejigantes are its strongest symbol: colorful folkloric characters wearing papier-mâché masks, representing the forces of evil. Legend has it that the vejigantes seek to kidnap children, but King Momo and his followers stand in their way. Many other animations mark the festival. It ends with the mock funeral and burial of the Sardine, which announces the beginning of Lent.