The chupinazo (inaugural rocket) launched from the Town Hall balcony will mark the beginning of the festive atmosphere in Otxandio on July 17th. The festivities will last for two weeks, featuring numerous events including a performance by the local dance group Urduri, the Salve Regina sung by the choir Oihandi, games and inflatables for children, a play-back competition between groups, a parade by the town band, sokamuturra (bull running), and the San Martín paella championship.
This year's celebrations will have a special focus: the 90th anniversary of the 1936 bombing. That bombing, one of the first of the Civil War, caused 61 deaths and numerous injuries on July 22nd. As every year, a tribute will be held in Andikona square, but this year that date will be remembered in a special way. In the morning, the horn of Vicinay and the fire bells will be rung, and in the afternoon, the event 'Memory of the Bells, Breath of the Town' will take place, featuring a floral offering and a participatory carillon and bell concert. Throughout the day, women's soka-dantza and the play 'Pulling the Thread' created by Ane Gebara will round off the day's program.
The musical offering will also be extensive. The first weekend will feature Gozategi, Altxa Porru plaza taldea, and Korrontzi on stage. The second weekend, the rock sounds of bands Nafarroa 1512 and Linea Roja will liven up the night, and Xaukena Xauk will ignite the party spirit until the early hours.
There will also be demonstrations of traditional Basque sports (herri kirolak) and a pelota mano match between professional players. The festivities will conclude with the traditional singing of 'Agur Santa Marina'.
July 20th will be Children's Day. Following the annual tradition, 6th-grade students will launch the chupinazo from the town hall balcony. Afterwards, there will be inflatables, water games, and workshops in the square, followed by a communal meal at 3:00 PM. In the afternoon, there will be a 'bits festa' (a type of party) and a snack, and to end the day, the youngest attendees can dance to music provided by DJ Raiztik.
Throughout the festivities, the protocol for addressing sexist aggressions will be active.
