Many people who live in Tucson find themselves wanting to travel to Spain for a vacation. This really makes sense because Tucson is located so close to the Mexican border. Residents of Tucson travel south to Mexico regularly, and the culture and art of Mexico find its roots in Spain.
Tucson residents don't have to travel to Mexico to be inundated with Spanish-based art or culture. Right here in Tucson the influence of Spain is ever-present. This can easily be seen in the architecture of many houses in Tucson. For an even clearer look, Tucsonans can visit any number of old churches, especially in some of the south areas of Tucson.
If you do travel to Spain, you're in for some treats. Some of the following events are celebrated at some level in Tucson, Arizona but nothing at all like they are in Spain.
Sanfermines
Most travelers to Spain will have already heard of this world-renowned event, more commonly known by its English title, the Running of the Bulls. The week-long gala occurs at the Festival of San Fermin in Pamplona, starting on July 7th of every year. Spanish men wearing the traditional white shirt and red sash take to the streets, trying to outrun the bulls behind them. Similar festivals on a smaller scale are held in Tudela (July 24th – 28th), Estella (first Saturday in August), Tafalla (August 20th – 25th), and Sanguesa (September 11th – 17th).
Feria de Abril
If you are traveling to Spain to see some Flamenco dancing, this week-long event held in Seville every April is not to be missed. Originally this festival was a cattle market, but it has evolved over the years into a flamenco paradise, complete with Tapas and sherry wine tasting throughout the evenings. As well, some of the most important bullfights of the year take place during this colorful event.
Semana Santa
Dating back to the 16th century, this Easter Week event (held two weeks before the Febria de Abril) was originally conceived by Catholic priests to make the Passion of Christ more understandable to the general population. In the present day, travelers to Spain will witness at this event parishioners chanting and cheering for their respective church, a long, complex procession of people playing out the characters in the story, and thousands of spectators.
Las Fallas de San José
This is the Valencia celebration of springtime in Spain, where travelers will see ten days of cardboard constructions burned to the ground on the last day of the festival (March 19th), fireworks, more bullfights, and lots of flamenco dancing and costumes.
Ceremonia del Tributo de las tres Vacas
Translated literally, this is the “Three Cow Tribute Ceremony,” which has its roots in contract dating back to 1375. Travelers to the Roncal Valley area of Spain on July 13th every year can witness this event, where the town’s dignitaries dress up in medieval gowns. The French inhabitants of the Baretous valley are paid tribute during the ceremony using three cows given to the people of Piedra San Martin.
Day of Inmaculada
The statue of the Virgin Immaculada in Seville is the host for this late night festivity, bringing together fraternities from all over Spain (called Tunas – easily recognized by their medieval dress) to sing their traditional songs. The next morning, December 7th, the Danza de los Seises takes place in the cathedral, a dance comprised entirely of children also dressed in medieval wear.
