The "Vejigantes" of Puerto Rico

In the Festival of Santiago Apostol (Apostle St. James) which takes place in Loiza every year, a group of people dress up in costumes of vibrant colors and horrifying masks becoming "Los Vejigantes" who represent the enemy Moors. The Saint also represents the Yoruba Orisha of Sango,  a god of the Yoruba people of Nigeria and therefore veneered by the African ancestors of Puerto Ricans (the slaves at the times of Spanish conquests).
 
The masks of the Vejigantes are the most impressive part of their costume. The vejigante masks are an example of the fusion of the African and Spanish cultures which created the cultures of the islands of the Caribbean and thus, Puerto Rico's.  The masks are made from paper mache, coconut shells, metal and gourd plant. They are characterized by large horns and vibrant colors. The vejigantes masks have become a form of "artesania" or native art form.You can find some samples of masks at (http://www.elcoquigifts.com/maskvejigante1.asp).
 
There are many towns in Puerto Rico that have festivals where vejigantes appear, but there are two main towns which are most famous for their grand festivities. These are the towns of Loiza and Ponce ( http://www.bombaboricua.com/Vejigantes/Vejigantes.htm). These towns received more influence from the African slaves and thus is shown in this ritual consisting of a mix of vibrant colors; festive, loud music; vivacious dancing, playfulness and laughter.