Güeñes transformed into a hub of creativity for the 66th International Paper Dress Contest, showcasing 21 creations from towns like Karrantza, Zalla, Sopuerta, Basauri, Barakaldo, Portugalete, Santurtzi, Las Arenas, Getxo, Bilbao, and Güeñes itself, alongside entries from Tarragona and Alicante, highlighting paper's potential in fashion and craftsmanship.
The event, streamed globally via YouTube, featured a jury of experts including designer Borja Hernández Urrutxurtu, sewing workshop professor Begoña García Pazos, and renowned tailor Juan Antonio Andrade, president of the Association of Master Tailors and Artisans of Bizkaia.
In the Children's category, Cinthya Cubillo won first prize for Design with 'MONUMENTAL' and for Cutting and Sewing with 'MUGAN DE LA CIENCIA'. For the Adult category, Yelitza Parra secured first prize in Design with 'GEOMETRIA FEMENINA', and Marivi Merino won first prize for Cutting and Sewing with 'SUNSET'.
A highlight of the evening was the return of the acclaimed Basque group Korrontzi to Güeñes by popular demand, providing musical accompaniment to the gala. The event was hosted by journalist Alex Sevilla Furones.
Mayor of Güeñes, Juan Andrés Iragorri Ruiz, emphasized the tradition's role in Güeñes' identity and its capacity for municipal projection. Arantza Carro, president of the Soineko Association, praised the quality of the dresses, the participants' efforts, and the audience's support.
