The Ekeko is an Aymara god / symbol of abundance and prosperity associated particularly with the altiplano regions of Bolivia and southern Peru. This belief has origins going back to at least the Tiwanaku (pre Inca) period, when people used to offer miniatures of things they desired to their gods in the belief that they would be received. Since then he has become associated with the Alasitas festival, and many people keep ekekos in their homes to bring them good luck. The festival has become much more popular and commercial in recent years, generating side events such as contests to choose the best dressed ekeko to promote the festival!