Corpus Christi is a major Christian holiday in Ecuador. The celebration starts when the local Bishop leads a procession through downtown to the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception (aka “New Cathedral”)

Following the Corpus Christi procession, the celebration of Setenario begins, as family businesses begin bullding castles.

Castles always bring out large crowds to watch — and photograph the event.

Wherever people gather in the streets of Cuenca, you can count on blaring music and impromptu dancing.

Once darkness sets, the castles are lit. Note above how close they are to cars and people. Very little concern for firework safety here…

Fireworks are shot overhead too. I was hit twice by burning embers falling — which is why I now always go to these with a cotton jacket (no nylon down jackets allowed!)

Setenario celebration centers around sweets, and after the fireworks, people wander dozens of newly set up tents filled with sugar in all forms.