The city officially welcomed its patron saint festivities this Saturday, marking the beginning of nine days of celebration. The opening speech, delivered from the City Hall balcony, was led by APHISA, an organization dedicated to the support and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
The inaugural day featured traditional events such as the floral offering to the Cristo de las Peñas, the presentation of the Fair's ladies-in-waiting, and the hoisting of the peñas' banner. Mayor Judith Piquet praised APHISA's speech as "beautiful and fun" and highlighted the association's work as an "example" of the city's human character.
Piquet encouraged attendees to enjoy the festivities with "head and respect," urging them to fully experience the program. The evening also included a surprise intervention by the Firefighters from the Santa María tower, followed by traditional cheers for the peñas and for Alcalá de Henares as a World Heritage City.
The celebration continued after the speech with musical performances by Loquillo at the Huerta del Obispo and Efecto Pasillo at the Plaza de Cervantes, marking a vibrant start to the festivities.
