Latin America's youth turn video-game vibe into street dance contests

Aura farming, a social-media craze rooted in video-game scoring, has evolved into real-world “aura battles” where dozens of youths perform dance-like routines in public spaces, often dressed as pop-culture icons. Originating in Brazil, the trend now reaches Peru’s capital, Mexico City, Quito, Buenos Aires and several Spanish cities, with judges being the cheering crowd. Participants claim the activity lets them express themselves and boost their personal “aura,” a concept drawn from spiritual traditions.

Organizers such as Peruvian content creator Fernando Lícito have staged multiple events, but authorities in Lima’s Miraflores district and Brazil’s Cuiaba have cancelled or relocated contests over permit issues. Costa Rica’s education ministry banned the practice in schools, whereas Mexico’s education minister publicly endorsed it as a way to “farm good education.”