Models in the forms of dragons, dinosaurs, giant fish, mermaids and fantastical creatures paraded through Mexico City. They thrilled thousands of spectators who were lining the streets, waiting to catch a glimpse of the creations.

The alebrijes were designed and built by artists from Mexico City and around the country. Schools, cultural centers, communities and art workshops, often spend weeks creating the displays.

One of the artists from the east end of Mexico City, Laura Pascual and her team of nearly 20 volunteers worked together to create a figure seven meters long and four meters high. Pascual says their effort was worth it, since the parade serves an important purpose.