Galdakao has officially launched its Santakurtzak festivals this Friday, with the proclamation delivered by Iskander Sagarminaga and the firecracker launched by Maria Casillas. The festivities are set to run until September 20th, featuring a wide array of activities throughout the municipality.
Prior to the official start, a large parade of 'cuadrillas' (groups of friends) took place, with residents gathering in front of the town hall for the main events. This year, Iskander Sagarminaga served as the town crier and Maria Casillas launched the firecracker, embracing their roles with enthusiasm and responsibility.
To ensure safe transportation for attendees, Galdabusa will operate a special night service on September 11th, 12th, 18th, and 19th, from 00:00 to 07:00. Services will depart hourly from Juan Bautista Uriarte street, number 30, with stops in various neighborhoods. The bus can make stops anywhere along the route, at the driver's discretion.
Additionally, a shuttle service will connect Galdakao to the Bolueta Metro station during the festival weekends: Fridays from 23:30 to 05:30 and Saturdays from 23:30 to 06:30, running every hour. The bus will depart from the vicinity of the health center.
Euskotren will also provide a special late-night train service on the nights of September 12th-13th and 19th-20th, between Matiko/Bilbao and Traña. A return bus service to the towns of Arratia will also be available on September 12th and 19th, departing from Plazakoetxe at 02:30 and 05:00.
Due to festival events, several streets will be closed at specific times. These include Juan Bautista Uriarte street for the parade and tricycle race, and Muguru street for the orchestra setup. Gipuzkoa street will also experience closures during the weekends.
Furthermore, local organizations have reaffirmed their commitment against gender-based violence during the festivities. Through the campaign ‘Without sexist aggression, 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.
Pregonero Iskander Sagarminaga and txupinera Maria Casillas have taken on their roles with enthusiasm and responsibility, urging citizens to enjoy the festivals with respect and joy. Both are swimmers and will share this special moment.
