J.R.R. Tolkien, a famous english writer from the XX century, created a fantasy universe where, among other characters, there were trees that walked and talked. I think I found the place where they come from…

In the Lousã mountain range, in the center of Portugal, every year around Shrovetide, the trees wake up. Since they do not move during the rest of the year, and the social networks haven’t reached these woods yet, they are not able to keep up with fashion, and have no sense of style. They take whatever old rags and clothes they can find and dress up to take a walk through the ancient villages of schist.

Some of the trees are nice, others are real demons. They throw their oak galls at the curious visitors, and do all sorts of mischief. Some even grow horns, because of how wicked they are.

But all have one thing in common. They love music and to have fun. Some take concertinas, drums, and bagpipes, and play for the others to dance, together with the village inhabitants, who have grown accustomed to them.

Not all trees are native species. Some came from England some years ago and stayed here. They loved the landscape and the people so much, that it wasn’t hard to grow new roots. Now they make a point of taking part in the party, mingling with the native species, and helping to boost and spread the seeds of this tradition.

However, there are some old age trees that find it very hard to move, and are unable to keep up with the party. Such is the case of an ancient oak in Pena village. But the younger ones make a point every year to go and visit him, and to have a family photo taken, so that he is not forgotten.

At the end of the day, everyone returns to their woods to fall asleep once again. At least until next year…