The Patron Saint Festivities of the Virgen del Val, honoring the patron saint of Alcalá de Henares, began this Friday, September 18th, with an opening speech delivered by athlete Arsenio Gómez Alcalá from the Plaza de la Juventud. The Mayor, Judith Piquet, attended the inaugural event, thanking the speaker for his generosity and highlighting the values of "pride" and "hope" he represents for the city.
Piquet emphasized the festive nature as a time for gathering and community, encouraging the residents of Alcalá to enjoy the Val Festivities "in peace and with joy." She praised Arsenio Gómez's sporting career, noting his connection to the El Val neighborhood, a place where he used to train, and stating that "it's never too late to start" and "we can always expect something new, something better."
The festival program, running until Saturday, September 26th, blends tradition, culture, sports, music, and children's activities. Friday's events included an open house at the Local Police Barracks and performances by dance schools at the Parque de la Juventud.
Saturday, September 19th, will feature an eco-fluvial route, a traditional parade of giants and big-heads accompanied by a band, a calva championship, exhibitions, and numerous family activities at the Parque de la Juventud. A highlight is the "Alcalá baila sus jotas" show in the Plaza de Cervantes, aiming to revive traditional dances. The day will also include performances by regional houses, dance schools, a concert by Conson Flamenco, and a tasting of Castilian products.
A religious element will be present with the procession of Nuestra Señora del Val from the Catedral-Magistral to her hermitage, accompanied by the Jesús de Medinaceli Musical Group. The evening will conclude with a concert by the group Sin Recreo at the Parque de la Juventud.
On Sunday, September 20th, the XXV Legua Popular El Val (Popular 25th Legua El Val race) will take place, along with a guided tour focusing on San Ignacio de Loyola, activities organized by festive clubs, the traditional pilgrimage, the Solemn High Mass, a solidarity paella by Cáritas Diocesana, and the Ronda a la Virgen del Val.
Monday, September 21st, will see the continuation of religious and cultural events, including a new guided tour for Alcalá's minor colleges and masses honoring the Virgen del Val and deceased confreres. The return procession of Nuestra Señora del Val from her hermitage to the Iglesia Magistral-Catedral will mark the end of the main festivities.
Finally, on Saturday, September 26th, the "Virgen del Val" Petanque Tournament will conclude the celebrations.
The full program is available at [https://distritos.ayto-alcaladehenares.es/fiestas-virgen-de-el-val/](https://distritos.ayto-alcaladehenares.es/fiestas-virgen-de-el-val/).
