Fiesta in Sober – 4 days ! – Tip on wardrobe
Here we go.
On Friday, the usual loud bangs, announced the – Fiesta es abierta -.
A warm up band started to draw in the people and as is very usual and common here the first couples danced.
Well, if Sober parties it parties. I think it was at about 11pm or so and the big band started.
La QUEIMADA – the ancient fire drink of the Galiciens, the history of which go back to Celtic times when “brujos” or sorcerers would cast spells “conjuro” to ward off any evil.
The equivalent of our local “druids” for this night can be seen here in deep discussion about how much sugar, coffee and peel to add.
It is based on the Orujo (aquardiente) the pure spirit made of the rests of the wine production once the grapes have fermented.
The stuff is lethal as I estimate it to be around 90% or so. Once lit and stired one can easily be forgiven to be drawn back to ancient times. Be ware it is very potent and yes I admit I was still slightly drunk the next day. No headache just the feel of still being under the brujos conjuro.
If you are interested in the origin and the spell Galinor.es has a page about Queimada and the spell in Galego and English.
For a spanish (Castillan) version pay About.com a visit here.
The core part is …….Hear, hear! The howls of those who burn in the aguardiente and thereby purify themselves. And when this brew runs down our throats, we will be free of all the sins of our soul and of all witchcraft……….
As ever Wikipedia has more about the origin and story of La Queimada
Whilst the Queimada was casting its spell a “local boy” Miguel Torres from Monforte tool to the stage and the voice clearly put the band on their places and send the couples dancing with even more vigor.
I’m afraid about Saturday and Sunday I cand report from personal experience although the bangs and the music was clearly audible in Mer.
We went back with our guests, Sean and Chrissie, to meet some people and parttake in the giant paella. This years weather was just perfect and the whole “do” could be prepared and held outside.
Strengthened by the paella and fortified by free wine the next band strikes up to more dancing, chatting and simply meeting friends and aquaintances.
Wareables for Galicia
Our guests raised a very valid point. It is important to highlight that there are certain “rules” in terms of clothing here in Galicia.
Always be prepared for a shower. Always have at least a warm pullover handy – even in summer – it always cools down at night or cool breeze may blow.
Expat
PS I should not forget to thank all the helpers, the concello and all the bands for making it agreat and memorable long weekend.
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September 23rd, 2009 at 11:42 am
NICE TO SEE MY HUBBY ENJOTING HIMSELF WHILE I AM STUCK AT HOME
September 24th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Looks like a great time was had by all. Terrific photos – especially the queimada and the paella!
And congratulations on the renovations too. The house is even more beautiful than earlier this summer.
No results on our search yet, but we´re still looking. We may come up again this fall.
Best,
Cole
September 30th, 2009 at 10:18 pm
Back home for less than a week and already planning the next visit! Thinking long and hard about a property we saw near Monforte . . . Note to Julie – Les was discussing work – honest! Martin, Barbara, thank you once again for a delightful stay – it was inspirational.
All the best
Sean and Chrissie