Culture,  Dance, Art, and Music

Easter and the Traditional Bolantes of Luzaide-Valcarlos, Spain

I first hiked the Camino de Santiago Camino Frances route in Spain in spring of 2018. Due to a large amount of snow on the upper Pyrenees route I was forced to take a lower alternate route which runs thru Luzaide-Valcarlos, in the Navarre region of Spain. As I came around a corner down into the small town I was initially looking for cafe for a quick breakfast before continuing on my journey as I was having coffee I heard music and the jingling of little bells. I quickly finished up and rushed outside only to see colorful ribbons and bells on local dancers passing in a parade. I had forgotten it was Easter week (Semana Santa) specifically Easter Sunday. Traditionally processions/parades are a central focus during Easter in Spain. As the local passed by, I was quickly mesmerized by the hailing of Spanish style trumpet music, drums, festive atmosphere and the colorful clothes and traditional red berets of the participants. It was quite a thrill! I stuck around much longer than I intended just to see the festivities. The parade culminated into a March here to the town square and small booth showcasing local foods from the region. How could I resist joining in and trying local cuisine. Funny how a small detour can turn into a so much fun.