Devil goes up in flames in Guatemala Christmas tradition

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STORY: Every year on the night of December 7, Guatemalans build bonfires to burn effigies of the devil as well as household junk in a symbol of purification before the following day's Catholic Holy Day of the Immaculate Conception.

The act marks the start of Christmas festivities in the Central American country and has taken place since the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.

The tradition has also become an opportunity for people to clean out their houses and throw old paper, furniture, and other unwanted goods on the bonfires. They also set off firecrackers as a sign that Christmas celebrations are underway.