People in Ecuador traditionally burn effigies on New Year's Eve to symbolically leave the old year behind.
These figures are commonly called años viejos, meaning “old years,” and are also known as monigotes. Families or neighborhoods may make them from paper, cardboard, cloth, wood, and other materials, sometimes shaping them like public figures, fictional characters, or people associated with memorable events.
At midnight, the effigies are burned as part of a ritual of farewell and renewal. The act represents destroying misfortunes, disappointments, or unwanted aspects of the previous year. Some celebrations also include written lists of wishes or reflections.
The practice is festive but requires care because burning large handmade figures can create fire and air-quality hazards. It is distinct from ordinary fireworks displays: the central object is a symbolic human or character-shaped figure representing the departing year.