Giant Puppet of Ecuador’s President Noboa Greets the New Year

Cuenca, Ecuador is celebrating the New Year with a striking tradition: massive puppets burned to symbolize letting go of the old year. This year,the largest puppet-standing five meters tall-depicts President Daniel Noboa. It’s currently on display near the Industrial Park on Avenida del Migrante and 25 de Marzo.

The puppet isn’t subtle. It’s dressed in blue jeans and a tight purple t-shirt, intentionally highlighting muscular features. This design choice aims to represent the president’s strength and decisiveness. It’s a bold statement, and people are definately noticing.

Crafted from paper, reeds, and wood, the figure is a major draw. Visitors are flocking to the esplanade to photograph the notable creation and create lasting memories. It’s become a focal point of the pre-New Year’s festivities.

Noboa isn’t alone. Seven other large puppets are also on display, though smaller in scale. These figures represent a mix of pop culture icons: superheroes like Vennon and Krator, wrestling legend Hulk Hogan, the Ecuadorian character Tralalero Tralara, and villains like Predator and Vecna from Stranger Things.

Behind these impressive creations is Edison Salazar, a 42-year-old artist from the Ecuadorian coast. He’s responsible for building both the giant puppets and smaller, more affordable versions sold for burning in the conventional New Year’s Eve ritual.

The Noboa puppet took approximately two months to complete. Salazar received support from his wife and daughter throughout the process. The finished piece is priced at $250 and, impressively, already has a buyer. He received a call confirming the sale, ensuring the president’s effigy will play its part in welcoming the new year.