Corpus Christi Devil Dancing, San Francisco de Yare

Diablos Danzantes Devil Dance Festival upholds a historic local tradition that dates back to the 18th century. This Venezuelan festivity takes place in Corpus Christi once a year in the city of San Francisco de Yare. The participants, who are dressed in scarlet capes with crosses and a devil mask, dance in a circle to the beat of loud drums. The stream of colorful dancers will flood the streets as they make their way to the chapel. The eerie throngs then take to the stage in the town's central square. They parade through the streets, adorned with rosary beads, crosses, and maracas, to the rhythm of terrifying musical lyrics.

Visit the Casa de Los Diablos Danzantes, which houses a collection of old images and relics from the festival, to see how the celebration has evolved through time. You can even construct your own mask; a few days before the celebration, visit the shop-lined arcades on Calle Rivas to find a plethora of vendors prepared to assist.

Takes place: May to June