Ontinyent will transform into a vibrant centre of popular culture this weekend as it hosts the aplec de gegants and cabets 2026. This annual celebration, now in its ninth edition, is organised by the Association of Giants and Cabets of Ontinyent in collaboration with the local council.
The event will feature three significant gatherings: the V Aplec de Gegants i Cabets, the III Aplec de Bestiari, and the IX Aplec de Gegants i Cabets. Àngels Muñoz, the councillor for fairs, festivals, and traditions, emphasised the importance of this event, stating, "This aplec is a crucial attraction that we have every four years, and it has been a significant part of our community for 32 years. It makes us a focal point for Mediterranean giant and cabot groups, thanks to the year-round efforts of the Association of Giants and Cabets, which the town hall fully supports."
Muñoz also highlighted the municipal involvement in enhancing the event, including the addition of new figures like the Turtle and the Eagle and the restoration of the giants' costumes. Culture councillor Àlex Borrell expressed pride in hosting the aplec, noting that moving the first day to Friday will allow for a more concentrated weekend of activities, which is expected to attract a large number of visitors. "We are confident they will feel welcomed and leave with a positive impression of our city," he remarked.
The programme kicks off on Friday, 23 October, with the V Aplec de Gegants i Cabets, which was postponed from its original date due to rain forecasts. Participants will gather at 18:00 in the Plaza de la Concepció, with a parade commencing at 18:30 through the city streets to the Plaza Mayor.
On Saturday, 24 October, the III Aplec de Bestiari will take place, featuring a display of figures in the Plaza de la Concepció from 18:00, followed by a parade at 19:00 leading to the Plaza Mayor for a final collective dance.
Finally, on Sunday, 25 October, the IX Aplec de Gegants i Cabets will conclude the festivities, starting with the planting of figures in the Plaza de la Concepció at 10:00 and a parade at 11:00. The route will include the streets of Gomis and Maians, culminating in the Plaza Mayor, where various groups will perform their dances, followed by the traditional dance of the Cabets, Gegantons, and Giants of Ontinyent.
