- San Isidro Labrador gala held in Algorós and Derramador with 500 attendees celebrating tradition and community.
- New queens and ladies of honour were crowned, bridging generations and reinforcing festive spirit.
- Special honors awarded to local heroes, including Vicente Bordonado named Honorary Neighbor.
- Artistic tribute unveiled symbolizing unity through customary regional attire.
- Upcoming weekend activities include a “Remember Night,” family foam party, giant paella, and a festive finale.
San isidro labrador Gala Strengthens Festive Unity in Algorós and Derramador
On the night of Friday, September 5th, the small districts of Algorós and Derramador near Elche came alive with the warmth of community and tradition during the emotional gala for the San Isidro Labrador festival. This much-awaited event,marked by the imposing ceremony of sash and band presentation,gathered around 500 guests beside the historic hermitage. The stage was set beneath a large banner reading “The red thread that unites the festive path”, serving as a powerful symbol and guiding theme throughout the evening.
A Night of Emotion, Tradition, and Recognition
Inés Agulló, a dedicated member of the local festival committee and event presenter, opened the ceremony with heartfelt words: “That red thread brings us here tonight, linking neighbors, friends, and families to live the festive dream together. It reminds us that nothing is random; the festival is the bond that unites our hearts and makes us always feel part of a family.” The sentiment perfectly set the tone for a night that celebrated more than festivity-it honored identity, shared history, and unity.
New Queens and Ladies Crowned With Pride
The highlight of the gala was undoubtedly the proclamation of this year’s festivity representatives:
- Reina Mayor: Estefanía Navas Rico
- Damas Mayores: María Cases Pérez and Haydeé Boix Pomares
- Reina Infantil: Olivia Mojica Belmonte
- Damas Infantiles: Marina García Briones and Paula Ruiz Ballester
Each newly crowned representative received thier bands from the outgoing queens and ladies, who were warmly applauded as thay bid farewell.
honoring Local Heroes and Festival Pillars
The evening also paid tribute to those who have profoundly contributed to the festivity and community spirit. Baltasar Martínez Martínez and María Esther Ruiz Martínez were named new honorary festival members in recognition of their long-standing dedication and familial ties to the festivity through their daughter Marta Martínez ruiz, outgoing Reina Mayor and current Dama Mayor of the Elche fiestas.
Marta’s moving speech ignited applause that filled the crowd with pride and emotion. Additionally, a sculpture crafted by Baltasar Martínez was unveiled, symbolizing the beauty and tradition of regional attire proudly worn by the festivity’s young women-an artful portrayal of the bond connecting heritage and community.
New Festival Representatives Among the Youth
- Festero Infantil: Marcos López Navas and Alaia San Pedro Fernández
- Portaestandarte 2025: nerea Sánchez Girona
These youthful representatives promise to carry forward the festive traditions with spirit and enthusiasm.
Vicente Bordonado: Honored as “vecino de Honor”
One of the most heartfelt moments of the night was the honoring of Vicente Bordonado, renowned geographer, reporter, and beloved “weather man” from TeleElx. Recognized as an Honorary Neighbor, Bordonado is celebrated for creating the program “El camp en festes”, which gives valuable visibility to the rural festivals of the Camp d’Elx area.
Grateful for the accolade, Bordonado reminded attendees, “Together, all the festivals of the Camp d’Elx are even greater than those of the city itself. We are all one municipality, and your work always deserves recognition from the City council.”
Festive Atmosphere Full of Participation and Emotion
The evening was filled with touching moments, including the send-off for the 2024 queens and Ladies alongside their families, a commemorative painting gifted to the local mayor of Algorós, Antonio Vicente Martínez, and a video montage showcasing the highlights of the outgoing festival court’s reign.
The gala enjoyed high-profile attendance with presence from the Queens and Ladies of Elche,the Management Committee for Popular Festivities,Union of Festivalists of the Camp d’Elx (UFECE) led by Andrés Coves,local council members,and district mayors. the speeches by UFECE president Andrés Coves and Councilor for Districts Pedro José Sánchez resonated deeply with the crowd, emphasizing the unbroken “red thread” that connects generations and ensures the continuity of these treasured traditions.
Festival Program: Weekend highlights
The San Isidro Labrador festivities continue through the weekend, featuring events for all ages:
| Date | Time | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, sept 6 | 22:00 | Remember Derramador Fest Night | 90s & 2000s music by Kino, Paco García, Di Carlo, Rubén Navarro. Free entry with bar service from 20:00 at the hermitage plaza. |
| Sunday, Sept 7 | 11:00 | Family Foam Party | Fun for all ages, bring your smiles and water-amiable attire. |
| Sunday, Sept 7 | 14:00 | Giant Popular Paella | Only €3 per portion. Reserve by calling Inés at 600 743 682 or Miguel at 692 606 850. |
| Sunday, Sept 7 | 18:00 | Family Lottery & Closing Firecracker Display | Exciting finish for the festival weekend with surprises and fireworks. |
A Tradition That Unites
San Isidro Labrador’s festival in the Algorós and Derramador districts stands as a shining example of how local customs, community spirit, and heartfelt celebration can forge lasting bonds. The gala not only honored those who carry tradition forward but also rekindled the fiery passion for festivals among new generations, ensuring these treasured cultural events will thrive for years to come.
For locals and visitors alike, the festival remains a magical meeting point-a celebration of identity, belonging, and the red thread that binds us all.
Source: A24 – San isidro Labrador Gala in Algorós and Derramador