A Living and Vibrant Tradition
The celebration is a fundamental element that defines the identity of a town. Our festival, known as the festival of the Moors and Christians, has deep roots that stretch back in time. This legacy has been passed down from generation to generation, creating a strong sense of esteem for what is ours, as well as for our language and culture.
A Sense of Belonging
There are people who connect with this holiday through their religious beliefs as it has a deep religious meaning. Others, on the other hand, feel bound by the simple fact of being part of a people, regardless of their beliefs. And there are also those who simply want to enjoy a party full of fun and entertainment. However, we all share the same pride in being part of a tradition that unites us as a community and that reflects our way of being.
A Party in Evolution
Over time, the party has evolved to adapt to social changes. It has been a constant process of finding the balance between the preservation of traditions and the incorporation of new elements that reflect the values and needs of each era. This evolution is driven by the community itself, since it is the members of the town who are the protagonists of the party at every moment.
The Participation of Women
For a long time, women’s participation in the party was limited, as it was considered an exclusively male space. However, thanks to brave women like Núria Martínez and Hermínia Blanquer, who fought to normalize the presence of women in the party, an unstoppable movement began. This movement, led by the civic group Fonèvol, has made significant progress in the last 20 years.
A Party for Everyone
Today, the participation of women in the party is a reality. However, it must be remembered that the party is for the entire town of Alcoi, not for a specific group or association. This means that we have to work so that everyone can participate and fully enjoy the party. In addition, the increase in public participation poses new challenges that the City Council and the Sant Jordi Association must be able to overcome in order to make the festival a more egalitarian and participatory space.
A Promising Future
In short, the Alcoi festival is a lively and vibrant celebration that reflects the town’s identity and sense of belonging. Over time, it has evolved to adapt to social changes and has opened the doors to women’s participation. Now, the challenge is to continue working to make the party an inclusive and participatory space for everyone. With this determination, we are sure that the party in Alcoy will have a promising future.
