Catholicism is very important in Peru, and many communities celebrate their faith through special festivals and traditions.
Since 1681, every five years, the town of Huanchaco in northern Peru celebrates a very special religious event called the descent of la Virgen de la Candelaria del Socorro (Our Lady of Candelaria). More than 300 years ago, in 1674, the city of Trujillo was suffering from a terrible plague and many insects. People carried the image of la Virgen from her church in Huanchaco to Trujillo, praying for help. After the procession, the problems ended, and people believed la Virgen had protected them. Since then, every five years at the end of November, hundreds of people carry la Virgen on their shoulders from Huanchaco to the Trujillo Cathedral. Along the way, they stop at different churches. During the journey, dancers dressed as devils and pallas sing and dance to show their faith and devotion.
La Virgen stays in Trujillo for several weeks and is brought back to Huanchaco on December 24 at midnight, just as Christmas begins. People in the town start getting excited months before the celebration. Groups of dancers practice their routines around town while their costumes and masks are prepared.
