SAN SALVADOR, Aug 2, 2023 (BSS/AFP) - Elves, queens and mythological beings paraded through the streets of El Salvador on Tuesday, in annual celebrations for the Central American country's patron saint and namesake.

The Salvador del Mundo (Savior of the World) festivities honor both Christian and local mythological traditions. This year saw thousands gather for a procession in the capital San Salvador, accompanied by both parade floats and bands.

"We have always attended with my family to see the parade, it is part of our culture that should not be missed," Reina Carpio, 54, told AFP while attending the parade with her husband and three children.

The parade was led by people dressed as creatures from Salvadoran mythology, such as the "siguanaba," a cursed female being, or the "cadejo," a black, dog-like animal with large fangs.

Queens adorned in multicolored flowers threw sweets to those in the audience, while elves and other fantastic beings showed off for passersby.

Each year, parades, children's events and sporting competitions are held as part of the festivities, typically under an increased police presence.

The celebrations this year are taking place under an anti-gang "state of emergency," in place since March 2022.

The director of Civil Protection, Luis Amaya, said that some 42,000 personnel -- including police officers, firefighters and medical workers -- were monitoring events this year.

The festivities will conclude on Sunday with a mass officiated by all of the country's bishops in the San Salvador cathedral.