The contest, a traditional summer event in Alcalá, will recognize the best vegetables, the best garden, and the best product collection. Mayor Marino Aguilera and the Councilor for Agriculture, Francisco Toro, presented the event, highlighting its deep roots in the municipality and its social character.
Aguilera emphasized that the contest values the tradition of vegetable gardening, primarily for self-consumption and family use, an activity widespread in Alcalá la Real. He stressed the importance of keeping these customs alive that connect the community.
Francisco Toro, head of the organizing department, encouraged gardeners to participate. Product reception will be from 09:00 to 12:00 at the Plaza de la Iglesia, where registrations can also be made. The exhibition of vegetables will be open to the public from 12:00 to 18:30, attracting visitors from other municipalities interested in the quality of local produce.
A jury composed of Toro and two representatives from agricultural organizations will evaluate the categories. €150 will be awarded for the best garden and best collection of vegetables, and €75 for various categories including best tomato collection, peppers, pumpkin, watermelon, melon, zucchini, potato, onion, and eggplant.
The councilor also highlighted the contest's solidarity aspect, allowing participants to donate their produce to local NGOs. In previous editions, items like a large pumpkin were donated, and its seeds were preserved for future campaigns.
Toro defended the need to promote these initiatives amid the decline of traditional and family farming, noting the City Council's commitment to fostering it and showcasing the products grown in Alcalá's gardens, particularly encouraging young people to get involved.
