Leioa is preparing to mark its 500th anniversary with two special days. On October 30th and 31st, the municipality will celebrate its history, recognize the individuals and groups contributing to community building, and share its experiences from this significant year with its citizens.
On Friday, October 30th, 'Día de Leioa' (Leioa Day) will be celebrated at the Palacio Artaza at 8:00 PM. This event will honor the municipality's associations, valuing their work, commitment, and contributions. The annual 'Premio Día de Leioa' will be awarded to GAUDE, a non-profit organization supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
On Saturday, October 31st, the celebration moves to the streets with a festive and participatory day. In the morning, a new phase of 'Leioa tiene un Tesoro' (Leioa has a Treasure) will take place, where families can deposit their 'tuppers' as future keepsakes. In the afternoon, Errekalde Square will host a music and dance performance, with 500 people representing Leioa's history. The event will conclude with the symbolic burial of time capsules and the final 'tuppers'.
Following the afternoon event, the festivities will continue on Bidebarrieta Boulevard with a popular hot chocolate ('txokolatada') and street entertainment. The evening will conclude with a 'romería' (traditional Basque dance) in Ikea Barri Square, capping off two days of celebration.
The GAUDE Association, founded in 1981, has been providing support to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in Bizkaia for 45 years. In Leioa, it offers various services, including an Occupational Center, a Day Center, and a supported living residence, playing a significant role in the community.
