The Lezo Festival Committee has prepared over 25 events for the upcoming Pentecost Festivities, scheduled from May 22nd to 24th. With the support of the Lezo City Council, an extensive program has been curated, offering activities for all ages and tastes, aiming to fill the town's streets with music, color, and engagement.
Aitzol Saizar Viaña, the Culture Councilor, expressed gratitude to the Festival Committee members and the various stakeholders involved throughout the year. He emphasized that "popular festivals belong to the people," highlighting the strong community-based organization in Lezo. The program, developed over many months, will come to fruition thanks to the commitment shown by local groups.
Once again this year, Zabarre and Maria Labaien will arrive in Lezo on Friday. They will disembark at the port and proceed through a parade to the main square, spreading a pirate atmosphere throughout the town. The official start to the festivities will be marked by the 'pirata txiki' (little pirate) proclamation, followed by continuous activities until Sunday. The Festival Committee encourages residents to fill the streets "with music, color, respect, and joy."
As explained by culture technician Ainhoa Salaberria Garmendia, the program includes a wide array of activities designed for all citizens. A key highlight will be the self-managed popular dinner on Friday, complemented by sports, cultural events, and street entertainment. The festivities will also feature finals of the Arkirun Klub, parades of giants and big-heads, dance performances, concerts, and street shows over the three days.
Organizers have placed a special emphasis on equality and respect. The festivities are also a result of the year-round efforts by the Feminist Movement, and resources to combat sexist violence will be activated once again. On Friday and Saturday nights, from 00:00 to 06:00, a dedicated phone line for attention and reporting will be available: 688 696 204. Organizers remind everyone that festivals must be safe spaces for all citizens.
Furthermore, measures will be implemented to reduce waste generation during the festivities, including the promotion of reusable cups in several areas. Residents are urged to keep the streets clean and celebrate responsibly. The Festival Committee underscores that these celebrations also serve as an opportunity to strengthen the community and foster relationships among its members.
The Pentecost program has been distributed to households and is available on the Lezo City Council's website and app. Saizar has encouraged citizens to prepare their pirate costumes – "young, old, children, and everyone in between" – to welcome Zabarre and Maria Labaien and celebrate Pentecost with enthusiasm.
