Álava celebrated its big day this April 28 with the San Prudencio festivities. Thousands of people converged on the fields of Armentia, the epicenter of a day that blends religious tradition, popular atmosphere, gastronomy, music, and family gatherings.

From early morning, Vitoria-Gasteiz kicked off the celebration with the traditional zortziko in the Plaza de la Provincia, in front of the Provincial Council of Álava. Later, the focus shifted to Armentia, where the Romanesque basilica and its surrounding fields once again became a meeting point for generations of Alaveses.

The day also featured a pontifical mass presided over by the Bishop of Vitoria-Gasteiz, who delivered a message with strong social content. In his homily, he warned against social and political polarization, advocating for “ordered and compassionate” migration and an Alavese society capable of welcoming and integrating people.

Meanwhile, in the fields, the party continued. Traditional rosquillas, talos, cider, txakoli, morcillas, tortillas, perretxikos, and sandwiches were part of the usual landscape of San Prudencio. Many attendees upheld the tradition, while others discovered the festival for the first time, surprised by the vibrant atmosphere.

San Prudencio remains a deeply family-oriented celebration, passed down through generations. The Red Cross also had a presence in Armentia, with personnel ready to handle any incident, and the Provincial Council of Álava awarded the Medal of Álava to a doctor, recognizing his professional career and scientific innovation.

The General Deputy of Álava emphasized that San Prudencio is “a very unique festival for us,” a day of reunion where the territory celebrates its identity. Rain, once again, was part of the script, though midday sunbeams dispelled concerns. San Prudencio is more than just a religious festival or a pilgrimage; it is one of Álava's great collective rituals, a day of remembrance, encounter, identity, tradition, and coexistence.