Gasteiz Giants Comparsa preserves Basque folklore through year-round preparation

Members of the Gasteiz Giants Comparsa, Dani Marijuan and Markel Ruiz de Gordoa, discuss the cultural significance and rigorous preparation required to maintain the tradition of giants in local festivals.

While the giants are a prominent sight during festivities, the group works year-round to prepare performances. Rehearsals typically begin in April in anticipation of the festivals of San Prudentzio and Holy Week. The members emphasize that their work is driven by passion and a commitment to preserving local identity and transmitting traditions to new generations.

Beyond major festivals, the group participates in smaller events such as Olarizu and Olentzero parades. However, they face logistical challenges regarding the transportation of the giants, which are owned by the Vitoria-Gasteiz City Council, making it difficult to accept external invitations or perform outside the region.