The Virgin of Candelaria is the patron saint of the town of Diriomo. Her day (Feb 2) is celebrated with a major fiesta in the town. People come from all over Nicaragua to help celebrate. Many of them bring their fancy horses to participate in the "Hipoteca" - the horse parade. The statue of the virgin is brought out of the Diriomo church with great ceremony, through an awning ("Huerto") of fruit and vegetables. As at all Nicaraguan festivals, the Gigantona (representing a powerful Spanish lady) and the Enano Cabezon (big-headed dwarf) do their dance to the drummers, and often the Cabezon recites couplets. Entertainment for all.

• Virgen de Candelaria Virgen de Candelaria
• Virgen de Candelaria Virgen de Candelaria
• Virgen de Candelaria Virgen de Candelaria
• Virgen de Candelaria Virgen de Candelaria
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• Iglesia de Diriomo Iglesia de Diriomo
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• Gigantona and cabezon Gigantona and cabezon
• Two gigantonas Two gigantonas
• Queen Queen
• Don gets a top spun in his hand... Don gets a top spun in his hand...
• ... and on his head! ... and on his head!
• But not on his tongue! But not on his tongue!
• Queen Queen
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