The Uninvited Parade
The Uninvited Parade is a coordinated effort that harlequin gremlins often partake in. Some eagerly await it, some fear it, but all acknowledge it as a major part of Altairus's cultural diaspora.
History
The Uninvited Parade has been around for as long as the Circus of Shadows has. It started as a way to advertise the circus, but has since been adapted to fit many different occasions.
Execution
The Uninvited Parade starts with a group of about 20-40 harlequin gremlins. At the command of one or two coordinators, the harlequin gremlins will begin singing, dancing, and marching. They will go stampeding through cities, villages, and even through homes to spread their cheerful spirits around... regardless of whether it is desired or not. They often leave behind a huge mess as they trample over fragile objects, track dirt and soot everywhere, and overwhelm unfortunate passerby with their energy and sheer number. When they leave, the places they visit are left in a much greater state of disarray than before.
Despite all this, the Uninvited Parade is not dangerous. Not to your person anyway. The Uninvited Parade does not result in physical injuries for those caught in the middle of it. In fact, the harlequin gremlins will go out of their way to avoid hurting other beings in their ritual. And they will be incredibly cheerful as they leave, gladly shaking your hand on their way out.
This does not mean that they are above making fun of you if you yell at them to get out. They tend to mimic anything spectators say during the Uninvited Parade, which some take as mockery. To some extent it is, but it is mostly about inviting their audience to join in to their parade.
The Uninvited Parade is a rather controversial subject. If you ask any Altairian about it, they either love it or hate it. Children tend to love it, while those with a perfectionist streak call it the bane of their existence. Love it or hate it, it undoubtedly serves as a reminder from the harlequin gremlins not to take life too seriously.
Participants
In the modern day, The Great Strombolio most often conducts the Uninvited Parade's movement.
Observance
The Uninvited Parade can strike at any time, but it is more likely to strike when the Circus of Shadows is in town, during Summer's End, or in the winter season in general. Harlequin gremlins, being Unseelie faeries, are most active during the winter months, and they are active around Summer's End in particular. They also host the Uninvited Parade to advertise that the Circus of Shadows or the Dark Carnival is in town, the latter of which coincides with Summer's End.
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