On Friday, April 24, the La Encarnación Municipal Auditorium hosted the 29th Regional May Festival, an event that once again brought together young and old alike around the most traditional folklore and stood out for its high turnout, with a total of 10 folk music groups performing on stage. Organized by the Department of Festivities and coordinated by Ana Belén Rodríguez Gallego, this event marks the kickoff of the Fiesta de Cruces y Mayos, which will be held in the town from April 30 to May 3.

Once again, rondallas of all ages, committed to preserving traditional music and its roots, took the stage to sing in honor of the Virgin, Jesus, or the Cross, also performing various pieces from their repertoire. Among the pieces performed, highlights included titles such as Habaneras de Cádiz, Clavelitos, and Popurrí Mejicano. All participating rondallas received a grant of two hundred euros in recognition of their cultural work.

The opening of the festival was led by the Cruz de Santiago Association, while the closing featured one of the most veteran rondallas, Los Tunos, who dedicated their performance to their Pepe Ramírez, a recently deceased Mayero.

The program will continue on the evening of April 30, when the rondas will parade through the city streets singing May songs to the Ladies. On Monday, May 1, at 8:30 p.m., the Pregón (opening proclamation) will take place, which this year will be delivered by Rosa Villar Bógalo. Finally, on May 2, at 3:00 p.m., the turros will be lit, a ceremony preceding the opening of the Cruces.