Every February, the Puerto Rican town of Ponce celebrates Carnaval in its own unique style. Costumes, dancing and music play an important role in the festivities, but it's the masks that set this Carnaval apart from others in the area. Made out of papier-mâché by local artisans, the masks represent the key players in a symbolic battle between the Christians, portrayed by the vejigantes (the horned characters) and the Moors, portrayed by the caballeros (the knights). The other characters, the viejos (old) and the locas (crazy) represent the evil of the Moors. The spectacle is free.

During the early summer, more than 400 artisans from around the island meet at Plaza de la Dársena and Paseo de la Princesa in Old San Juan to display and sell the best of their arts and crafts. This important fair features live folk music, a troubadour contest (traditional country singer), exciting dance music and regional foods of Puerto Rico.