Beginning about 2,000 years ago, the unique cultural tradition La Vijanera is held on the first Sunday of every year. It’s an annual masquerade festival celebrated in Cantabria, Spain, where costumed characters embody symbolic roles in folkloric acts to welcome the new year and review the passing year.

Photos from carlos gonzález ximénez, eduiturri, ivanvieito, FARAONDEMETAL, and pablo.mazorra.