This post originally appeared on VICE Germany.While in most parts of the world people reserve their carnivals for the summer months, the Czechs celebrate their own version by drinking alcohol in the freezing cold. Known as Masopust, which literally means "Do not eat meat," the feast was originally conceived as the last hurrah before the beginning of Lent. But, just like many similar European customs, Masopust also has its roots in ancient pagan rituals: the alcohol consumption, the costumes as well as the traditional slaughtering of pigs are all meant to signify the end of winter.
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In the village of Hamry, about 100 miles east of Prague, it is the local fire department who are responsible for the preservation of the old Masopust traditions. Starting at dawn, the firemen dress up in colorful costumes, paint their faces with charcoal—which is supposed to be a sign of good luck, not racism—and go from door to door asking the villagers for treats. These are normally sweets, sausages, and Stamper hard liquor. By the evening, the whole village feels cold, dirty, and drunk—but content. Here are some photos from last weekend's festivities.See more of Margot's work here.
