Marchamalo hosted the fifth edition of ‘Marchamalo entre Culturas’ this past Saturday, an event that has evolved into a Provincial Intercultural Festival, thanks to the sponsorship of the Guadalajara Provincial Council. This year, the fair set a record with participation from 15 countries and attracted hundreds of visitors throughout the day at the Ferial Gallardo venue.
The event was organised by the Town Hall of Marchamalo and the Provincial Federation of Intercultural Associations of Guadalajara. It saw attendance from municipal representatives, including Mayor Rafael Esteban, officials from the Provincial Council, the regional government of Castilla-La Mancha, and the President of the Cortes of Castilla-La Mancha, Pablo Bellido. This year, the fair paid tribute to Senegalese comedian Lamine Thior and local social worker Antonia del Olmo Manzano.
The Ferial Park once again hosted ‘Marchamalo entre Culturas’, which has become a reference point in the province due to the collaboration of the Guadalajara Provincial Council. The event featured a vibrant parade showcasing traditional costumes and dances, followed by various stands offering culinary delights and handicrafts from each participating country, represented by cultural associations from across Guadalajara.
This year, Colombia was the featured country, showcasing its folklore, fashion, and traditional cuisine through various performances, culminating in the afternoon with shows by the Latin orchestras ‘Los Pilares del Vallenato’ and ‘La Fuga’. Other participating nations included Peru, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Venezuela, Bolivia, Panama, Chile, Argentina, Italy, Romania, Bulgaria, Morocco, Palestine, and Equatorial Guinea, with the WADO Association participating for the first time.
The event also saw significant public representation, with nearly all local councillors in attendance, led by Mayor Rafael Esteban, as well as various representatives from the Guadalajara Provincial Council and the regional government of Castilla-La Mancha. Following the parade and the introduction of all participating countries, Mayor Esteban addressed the audience, delivering a message of fraternity, welcome, and gratitude to all participants. He remarked, “By sharing their culture and cuisine, they bring us closer to their origins, uniting and enriching our society, as they arrive with the desire to work and prosper.” Esteban concluded with wishes for “the most important things: respect, health, and peace, both in their home countries and in ours.”
After the speeches from various institutional representatives, this year’s tributes were presented. Following last year’s recognition of refugee groups from war-torn countries such as Ukraine and Palestine, this year’s honours were awarded to two individuals for their distinct contributions. A plaque was presented to Senegalese actor, comedian, and screenwriter Lamine Thior for his efforts in raising awareness about underlying racism in society, identity conflicts, and the recognition of diversity through humour in his performances, television appearances, and social media. Additionally, local social worker Antonia del Olmo Manzano, known as Toñi, was honoured for her tireless work assisting the social and legal integration of foreigners facing difficulties in Spain through the GuadaAcoge Association.
