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Cristina Ayala Santamaría
Mayor of Burgos

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Every July, Burgos once again opens its arms to the world through the music, dance and traditions that bring the International Folklore Festival “Ciudad de Burgos” to life, an essential event in our cultural calendar, which this year celebrates its 48th edition.

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From 14 to 18 July, our city will once again become a meeting place for peoples and cultures, welcoming 530 participants belonging to 17 groups from four continents. From Madagascar, Senegal, Venezuela, the island of Guam, Chile, Slovakia and Türkiye, together with the guest group from Murcia and the nine groups from Burgos, the festival will once again demonstrate that folklore is a universal language capable of moving us, bringing people together and building bridges between cultures.

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San Juan Square will once again be the main stage for this celebration, although the festival will also extend to the Teatro Principal, with the “World Music” programme; to the bandstand in the Paseo del Espolón, where the public will be able to take part in the “Dance with Us” activity; and to the historic centre of the city, which will once again be filled with colour and joy with the traditional parade of the participating groups.

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This festival represents much more than a programme of performances. It is an opportunity to discover the richness of the intangible heritage of peoples, share customs, strengthen dialogue between cultures and remember that our differences are one of humanity’s greatest treasures. During these days, Burgos becomes an open and welcoming city, proud to serve as a meeting point for traditions from every corner of the world.

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I would like to express my most sincere recognition to the Comité de Folclore Ciudad de Burgos, whose artistic direction, organisational work and cultural volunteers make it possible, year after year, for this festival to continue growing and maintaining the international prestige it has achieved after almost five decades of history. My gratitude also extends to the Municipal Department of Culture and Tourism and to all those who, through their effort and dedication, contribute to the success of this great celebration.

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But if there is one true protagonist of the festival, it is the people of Burgos. Their loyalty, enthusiasm and affection in welcoming each of the participating groups have made this gathering one of the great hallmarks of our city’s cultural identity.

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I invite you to enjoy this 48th edition, to let yourselves be surprised by the sounds, colours and traditions that will arrive in Burgos from different parts of the world, and to experience together a new celebration of folklore as a shared heritage of humanity.

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Welcome to the International Folklore Festival “Ciudad de Burgos”!