The festival is always accompanied by large-scale folk festivals, an abundance of costumed performances and ceremonial processions. The unique atmosphere of fun, enchanting music and festive food are main distinguishing features of the bright festival.
A few centuries ago, many residents have left their homes and moved to mountains to practice their favorite craft, the production of ice cream. That has led aforementioned festival to double. Despite the fact that modern citizens don’t need to leave their homes and loved ones, they continue celebrating the Winter Festival like many years ago.
It starts on the third Saturday of February. The flower market is considered to be the main event of the holiday. During the festival, you can see locals dressed in interesting costumes; that is the clothing worn by townspeople a few centuries ago. Traditionally, a huge number of travelers are visiting Gijon on the eve of Christmas. The traditional large-scale Christmas market starts in the beginning of December; it is considered one of the most beautiful in Spain.
In addition to a variety of holiday items, a lot of interesting sweets and treats are sold at the market. The special Christmas delicacy is turron. On the eve of the New Year streets are decorated with aixames torches; they give the city a mysterious and romantic look. Talking about features of the local culture, we should definitely mention love for cider. The beautiful holiday is dedicated to the popular local drink. The Cider Festival is celebrated in the first half of October. During ten days, the most famous producers of cider represent best varieties of the drink. Guests of the holiday are involved in tasting and participating in various recreational activities.
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