Año Viejo (New Year Celebrations)
On December 31, if visitors are impressed with dancing, drinking, watching fireworks, and partying, then Ecuador has its very own way of celebrating New Year's Day, called Año Viejo. Locals make life-size Año Viejo (old-fashioned dolls) and burn them. These dummies can be any person or human figure they don't like. A handwritten note, explaining the reason behind the dislike, is pinned to the dummies as you burn them. Some really passionate people even stomp on burning piles for effect. However, do not forget to exercise caution. All of this usually happens around 12 a.m. on December 31, followed by dancing and cheering for the new year. Especially, you don't have to be Ecuadorian to burn the effigies, visitors can buy one from the market or even make one of their own and enjoy New Year's celebrations in a completely unique way. This is an impressive point that makes the Año Viejo festival a famous festival in Ecuador.
At the Año Viejo festival, the effigies represent the experiences and events of the past year. The fire symbolizes the beginning of new experiences and better things to come. Las Viudas (The Widows) is an important part of this celebration. Men dressed as women personify the viudas, in mourning for the Año Viejo Puppet.
- Organization time: December 31 every year
- Location: Ecuador
