Peru celebrates 'The Virgen De La Candelaria' festival

One town in southern Peru was filled with tens of thousands of colorful dancers. They were taking part in the Virgen De La Candelaria Festival which was held in the city of Puno.

More than 40,000 dancers and musicians filled the streets of Puno in southern Peru. They're celebrating one of the most significant days of the Virgen de la Candelaria Festival - which dates back to the 16th century.

It starts at the beginning of February with a daybreak mass and then an ancient purification ceremony. The next day the image of the Virgin Mary is carried through the streets with a procession of traditional music and dancing with forty folkloric groups.

The celebration showcases traditional dances such as Morenada and Diablada.

The event was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by the United Nations in 2014 and attracts thousands of locals and tourists. 
 

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