The Santakurtz festivities have officially begun in Galdakao. The town is buzzing with a lively atmosphere, marked by a grand parade of 'cuadrillas' (groups of friends) followed by a gathering in front of the town hall. Here, Iskander Sagarminaga read the proclamation and Maria Casillas launched the firecracker, signaling the start of celebrations that will continue until September 20th.
To facilitate attendees' travel, special transport measures are in place. Galdabusa will operate a special night service on September 11th, 12th, 18th, and 19th, from 00:00 to 07:00, departing from 30 Juan Bautista Uriarte street and making stops in the main neighborhoods. The bus can stop at any requested location within the established route.
Additionally, a Metro shuttle service will be available on weekends, connecting Galdakao with the Bolueta Metro station. It will run on Fridays from 23:30 to 05:30 and on Saturdays from 23:30 to 06:30, hourly, with stops at Ambulatorio, Urreta, Sixta Barrenetxea, Bengoetxe – La Troka, Olabarrieta, and Aperribai stations.
Euskotren will also provide a special night train service on the nights of September 12th-13th and 19th-20th, between Matiko/Bilbao and Traña. A bus service for returning to the Arratia towns will be operational on September 12th and 19th, departing from Plazakoetxe at 02:30 and 05:00.
Due to the festive events, several streets will be closed at specific times. On September 11th, Juan Bautista Uriarte street will be closed from 18:00 to 21:00 for the parade, and Ganekogorta street from 22:00 to 00:30 for a tricycle race. Events such as a bed race, a descent of 'goitiberas' (homemade carts), and the orchestra setup will also impact traffic.
Furthermore, festival organizers have reaffirmed their commitment to celebrating without gender-based violence and in freedom. As part of the campaign ‘Without sexist aggressions, Galdakao is free,’ information will be disseminated, and a 'Punto Morado' (Purple Point) will be set up in the 'txosna' (bar) area to offer support. The Municipal Program for Assistance to Victims of Gender Violence phone line (688 719 304) will be active 24 hours a day.
Additionally, wristbands and temporary tattoos with anti-gender violence messages will be distributed to serve as a reminder of the commitment to coexistence, respect, and equality during the festivities.
