Explain who or what "Año Viejo" is and its significance. Write your answer in English.
"Año Viejo" is a tradition that is celebrated in various Latin American countries, particularly in Ecuador and Colombia, on New Year's Eve. The term "Año Viejo" literally translates to "Old Year" in English. It involves the creation of life-sized effigies made from materials such as wood, paper, and cloth, representing the old year.
These effigies are typically dressed in old clothes and adorned with masks and hats. At midnight on New Year's Eve, the effigies are lit on fire, symbolizing the burning of the old year and the casting away of negative energy and bad luck. This act is believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.
The significance of the "Año Viejo" tradition lies in its symbolic representation of starting fresh and letting go of the past. It is a way for people to leave behind any negativity or hardships from the previous year and welcome the new year with positivity, hope, and optimism. The burning of the effigies is also seen as a way to purify and cleanse the environment, creating a fresh start for the year ahead.