The spirit of Christmas is set to come alive as Bilbao prepares for the eagerly anticipated 2024 Olentzero and Mari Domingi Parade, scheduled for December 23. Starting at 18:00, this beloved event will see the streets of the city transformed as the iconic figures of Olentzero, aided by Mari Domingi, greet thousands of locals and visitors alike.
Starting from the grand Hotel Carlton, the kalejira will travel through key city points including Plaza Moyua, Gran Vía, and Plaza Circular, before concluding at the historic Teatro Arriaga. This festive procession not only marks the arrival of Christmas but also provides Olentzero with the opportunity to meet the children and distribute the gifts they have been waiting for.
City officials have advised residents to prepare for significant traffic disruptions during the parade, which is expected to affect various lines of public transportation. Major roads, including sections of Gran Vía and other adjacent streets, will be closed to traffic from approximately 17:00 to 21:00. Specifically, the access to parking facilities along these routes will be restricted, impacting many local businesses and commuters.
According to local transportation officials, "Varias líneas de Bizkaibus y el tranvía también se verán afectados" ("Several Bizkaibus lines and the tram will also be affected"). To mitigate confusion, updates on the modified routes and stops will be communicated through several platforms, including local apps and social media channels. Information will also be shared through panels located around the city.
Preparations for the event extend beyond just traffic control. The Bilbao Municipal Police is set to deploy additional personnel to monitor the situation and keep festivities safe. The enhanced security measures will focus particularly on the areas expected to draw large crowds, especially near Gran Vía, where many shoppers and parade attendees will gather.
The city has also instituted a special cleaning operation, with 32 workers and technical means planned to manage the aftermath of the event. Their role will include placing multiple receptacles along the parade route to facilitate proper waste disposal and help maintain cleanliness.
This year, participants and spectators alike may need to brace themselves for less-than-ideal weather. The State Meteorological Agency has issued warnings for strong winds and heavy rain coinciding with the parade time. One local news report emphasized, "Adultos y niños tendrán que acudir... ataviados con chubasquero y paraguas" ("Adults and children must come dressed with raincoats and umbrellas").
The forecast predicts continuous rain starting as early as 17:00, with probability rates soaring to 90% as the event gets underway. With sea conditions also alarming, waves of up to 7 meters along the Biscayan coast are anticipated. Hence, securing suitable rain gear is highly recommended.
Despite these meteorological challenges, the enthusiasm surrounding the Olentzero and Mari Domingi Parade remains infectious. For many families, the kalejira is not just about the festivities but also signifies the onset of Christmas traditions. Local community members and children will gather to catch sight of Olentzero on his horse, joyfully waving and calling out to the audience, embodying the festive atmosphere of this cherished holiday event.
While the cold weather may put dampers on some attendees, it seems unlikely to diminish the warmth of the community spirit. The celebrations are expected to launch many families’ holiday experiences, offering hope, joy, and seasonal cheer.
For those unable to attend the parade but wanting to join the spirit of Christmas, the City Council encourages residents to share their experiences from home, whether participating through social media channels or simply enjoying the holiday atmosphere within their neighborhoods.
All eyes will be on the skies this 23rd of December as Bilbao opens its heart to the arrival of Christmas. Will Olentzero manage to brighten what seems like a rainy Monday evening? The city is all set to discover the answer together.
