The mayor of Bailén, Luis Mariano Camacho, along with the Councillor for Festivities, Manuel Rodríguez, has unveiled the calendar of activities planned for the Pilgrimage of the Virgen de Zocueca, the town's Patron Saint. The main celebration will occur on Sunday, September 27th.
Camacho Núñez highlighted the significance of this pilgrimage as one of the most anticipated events of the year in Bailén, encouraging the participation of all residents. "The Pilgrimage of the Virgen de Zocueca is a very special occasion for all the people of Bailén, a tradition that is part of our identity and which we experience each year with great enthusiasm," stated the mayor, emphasizing the collaboration between the City Council and the Neighborhood Associations of Zocueca and La Noria.
The central day of the festival will be Sunday, September 27th, a date when tradition, faith, and devotion will be the protagonists. Religious events will commence at 6:30 AM in the Parroquia de la Encarnación with the recitation of Laudes and the transfer of the Virgin to her Sanctuary in El Rumblar. Subsequently, the Solemn Religious Service and the procession through the village will take place.
The Zocueca Neighborhood Association has organized a festive, family-friendly, and cultural program that will run from Thursday, September 24th, to Sunday, September 27th. Highlights include the announcement of the III Romera Facade Contest, a gastronomic tortilla contest, a proclamation speech with a flamenco performance and DJ on Friday, September 25th. Saturday, September 26th, will be dedicated to families with traditional games, a children's park, and contests.
For its part, the La Noria Neighborhood Association has prepared activities starting Thursday, September 24th, including children's games, sack races, athletics competitions, face painting, and musical performances. On Saturday, September 26th, the XV Ronda Tournament, the VII Chess Tournament, a Foam Party, the VIII Spanish Paella Contest, and dance performances will be held. The day will conclude with live music and a ham raffle.
The Councillor for Festivities, Manuel Rodríguez, underscored the effort of the collectives and residents in organizing the activities, inviting everyone to participate in the religious and traditional events that form the heart of the Pilgrimage.
