Festa Do Caretos Portugal

Johnny Fonseca has shot this explosive new series of the Festa Do Caretos in his native Portugal. 

The Caretos de Podence are vibrant masked figures who take part in a centuries-old tradition during Carnival in the village of Podence, Portugal. Dressed in fringed, multicolored wool costumes and wearing devilish brass or wooden masks, the Caretos run through the streets playfully causing mischief—shaking cowbells, jumping, and surprising onlookers. Rooted in ancient pagan rituals marking the end of winter and the rebirth of nature, the tradition celebrates freedom, transformation, and youthful energy. It has been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.