Maracas are percussion instruments that consist of a hollow body filled with beads or seeds, which create sound when shaken. They are often made from materials like wood, plastic, or gourd and are commonly used in various music genres, especially in Latin American and Caribbean music. Maracas come in pairs, allowing musicians to create rhythmic patterns. To play maracas, a person holds one in each hand and shakes them to produce a lively sound. They are frequently used in dance music and can enhance the overall rhythm of a performance. Maracas are popular in both traditional and contemporary music settings.