Sure! Here’s the translation to American English:
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Pastrana celebrated its most awaited day of the year on August 15: the Grande Day in honor of the Virgin of the Assumption. The town was filled with bells, music, and a popular fervor that highlighted the tradition, history, and community spirit in the ducal villa. This event, which has become a central part of the summer festivities in Pastrana, included a solemn Mass, a procession, and various activities that enlivened the day.
The celebration began with the selection of the Majas 2025: Carlota Corregidor, Miriam Sanmatías, and Mónica Rodado, who enjoyed the Mass sung by the Coral La Paz under the direction of Maestro Raúl Cañego. In his homily, Pastor Emilio Esteban, alongside missionary Miguel Ranera, emphasized the importance of celebrating this festivity with intensity and commitment, especially in this Holy Year 2025.
The procession featured a baroque image of the Virgin attributed to the school of Alonso Cano and wound through the most emblematic streets of Pastrana, accompanied by the local Music Band and numerous faithful carrying flowers. The official representation was led by Mayor Carlos Largo, who attended alongside other local representatives, including Ismael Sánchez, the mayor of the neighboring town of Hueva.
The week of celebrations began on August 13 with the official proclamation by Judith García Montes, a young woman from Pastrana who qualified for the Spanish School Judo Championship. With heartfelt words, she remembered her connection to Pastrana and spoke about perseverance in sports, concluding her message with a call to enjoy the festivities and appreciate the land that raised her.
The festivities were marked by an atmosphere of revival and vitality. Street bands, dances, and bullfighting events brought the streets to life, especially the novice bullfight on August 9 at the Bullring, which this year celebrates its 170th anniversary since its construction. The 40 Pastrana groups, a record number, showcased their creativity in floats and costumes, actively participating in the festival program.
Among the highlights was the “Vaquilla del Aguardiente,” an event that was revived last year and has become an essential tradition. The festivities concluded with a Community Snack and a vibrant closing dance, wrapping up the intense week with a strong sense of community and celebration.
Pastrana’s Grande Day not only highlighted the devotion to the Virgin of the Assumption but also showcased the unity and joy of a town that, after years of pause in its celebrations, has reclaimed the splendor of its traditions at the heart of La Alcarria.
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Source: MiMub in Spanish
