Practically any major holiday in Asturias begins with Pregón. This is a solemn address to the residents and guests of the city, which symbolically opens the festive days and kicks off the entire program of events.
What is Pregón?
The word pregón can be translated as “festive address,” “welcome speech,” or “solemn announcement.”
The tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when town criers would read important news, government orders, and announcements in the central squares. Over time, this custom evolved into one of the main rituals of Spanish festivals.
Today, Pregón consists of a speech delivered by an invited guest, a well-known resident of the city, an athlete, an artist, a journalist, or a person connected to the history and culture of the region.
How does Pregón take place?
Usually, the ceremony takes place in the main square of the city or from the stage of the festive complex.
During Pregón:
- residents and guests of the festival gather;
- municipal representatives greet the public;
- the invited pregonero (author of the festive address) delivers a speech;
- the history of the city and the significance of the festival are recalled;
- the start of the celebrations is officially announced.
In many cities, immediately after Pregón, fireworks are launched, music plays, or the traditional Barrenazu is performed, symbolizing the start of the festival.
Who becomes pregonero?
Every year, the organizers try to invite a person whom the city or region is proud of.
These can be:
- famous athletes;
- musicians;
- actors;
- journalists;
- scientists;
- representatives of local traditions and culture.
Often, the choice of pregonero becomes one of the main intrigues before the start of the festival.
Pregón in Asturian festivals
The tradition is preserved in almost all major holidays in Asturias:
- the San Mateo festival in Oviedo;
- San Juan in Mieres;
- Semana Grande in Gijón;
- Descenso Internacional del Sella in Ribadesella;
- dozens of local fiestas throughout the region.
For many residents, it is Pregón that is considered the true beginning of the festival, even if concerts or fairs open later.
Why should you attend Pregón?
For tourists, it is an opportunity to see the festival through the eyes of the locals. At this moment, there is a special atmosphere of anticipation as thousands of people gather together before the start of several days of music, traditions, cider, and entertainment.
If you see the word Pregón in the festival program, don’t miss it. This speech marks the beginning of each Asturian festival, along with the brightest days of summer in Asturias.
Tags: Pregón, Asturias, Asturian traditions, Asturian festivals, Spanish traditions, Asturias festivals, culture of Spain, pregonero, Asturian fiestas.
