One of the few Zelda games in which Ganon does not appear.
The story told by the Clock Town organ-grinder involving the Bremen's Mask references the Brothers Grimm fairy tale "Die Bremer Stadtmusikanten" (The Town Musicians of Bremen). The tale follows the story of a dog, cat, rooster, and donkey who all escape their maltreating owners in hopes of reaching the city of Bremen, Germany (a free-trade town representing freedom from the animals' masters). Although they never reach this town, by banding together, the four animals are able to drive away a group of robbers near a forest cabin and live in harmony in the house.
The Legend of Zelda creator Shigeru Miyamoto has confirmed that the Happy Mask Salesman was inspired from his own looks and personality.
The mask based theme of The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask is said to be influenced by the Marajoara, a society that lived on the Marajo Island from 800 AD to 1400 AD. They are known for their intricate masks and paintings.
The Happy Mask Man has a mask of Mario on the top of his sack, from another popular Nintendo series.