THE MAY CROSSES FESTIVAL IN GRANADA

The May Crosses Festival (Cruces de Mayo) is celebrated in many parts of the world. In Spain, the festival holds special importance in many parts of Andalusia, but especially in Granada.

Squares, patios and balconies are adorned with floral crosses, beginning three days of revelry.

The May Crosses festival is always at the beginning of May. It is actually more than a festival - it is also a contest, with neighbourhood associations competing for prizes for the best-decorated cross from town hall. The preparations take place in the preceding weeks, with people from each street or neighbourhood joining in with the decorating of their cross.

The crosses are judged according to criteria along the lines of: the decoration of the cross itself, the floral variety used, the lighting, and use of existing environmental elements (trees, walls etc).

The crosses are about three metres high, decorated with flowers, usually in red or white and sometimes with more foliage emerging from the upper part of the cross, including its three points, or patterns imposed on the base colour. The effect is further enhanced by more flowers (often pink and white) in pots in a carefully arranged pattern to complement the cross, hanging on the wall behind it, placed at its foot, or going up the steps on which it sits.

Each neighbourhood association sets up a bar next to its cross to serve drinks (try the fino sherry) and tapas to the partygoers. Let's not forget the music. In addition to the Sevillanas played during the day, with many local women dancing in their gypsy dresses, there are live performances local flamenco singers and groups or even rock bands at night.

In Granada the crosses are installed on the day of the festival, and remain in place until late in the evening.