On August 4-9, Vitoria-Gasteiz holds its own "Fiestas", the festival of the Virgen
Blanca (White Virgin).
On August 4, the inhabitants of Vitoria congregate in the Plaza de la Virgen Blanca,
to wait for the moment when the clock on the tower of San Miguel chimes six o'clock in
the evening, and the Mayor of Vitoria-Gasteiz lights the fireworks to announce the
beginning of the festivals of La Blanca, giving way to the highlight of the fiestas,
the "Descent of Celedón".
These festivals have been developed over the years, adapting long-held traditions to
the tastes of the modern era and comprise the following main activities: religious
ceremonies, music, the "blusas", children's activities, bullfighting, theatre, fireworks
and sports.
After six days of intense merrymaking and rejoicing, the festival comes to its conclusion
on August 9 with the "Ascent of Celedón". |
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