The Perchtenlauf is a centuries-old winter parade tradition held in Grafing, Bavaria, Germany, on December 15, 2024. Participants, adorned in various elaborate masks, dance and perform songs as they march through the town. The Perchten, symbolic figures in the pagan tradition, are seen as bringers of luck and harbingers of the New Year and growing season. Representing a mix of chaos, death, blessings, and rebirth, these powerful figures aim to drive away evil winter spirits and awaken those of renewal. The Perchtenlauf is a unique celebration of transformation and hope. (Photo by Michael Nguyen/NurPhoto) (Photo by Michael Nguyen / NurPhoto / NurPhoto via AFP)