Hundreds of clowns have marched through the streets of Peru's capital to mark Clown Day as they seek to gain official recognition of the day.
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The colourful parade in Lima, which includes awards for the best costumes, makeup, routine and improvisation, takes place every year on May 25.
The date is in honour of clown Tony Perejil, who died on May 25, 1987 and was known as "the clown of the poor" because he performed in low-income neighbourhoods to which he would donate a portion of his earnings.
"In Peru, there is Lawyer's Day, Ceviche Day, and we also want a Clown Day because it would open doors for us to have support from the state and from the municipalities," said Marcos Chininin, known as the clown Chalupa.
Chininin said the official recognition would give clowns access to government funds and performance spaces overseen by municipalities and local communities, as well as open the possibility of establishing schools to teach the art of clowning.
Members of Peru's parliament have not yet discussed a proposed bill to create the holiday.
Chininin, 42, estimated that about 200,000 people across Peru work as clowns, including at children's events and the circus.
Miguel Ara Stein participated in Saturday's parade dressed as his character "Chuchurro."
He said establishing the holiday would also be an acknowledgement of the talents of clowns.
"You have to have the gift of acting, the gift of character, of improvising," Ara, 57, said. "We are all born for something and making people laugh is a gift."
Australian Associated Press
