Alcalá de Henares has seen an unusual protest: dozens of residents dressed as zombies gathered outside the city hall. Their aim was to draw attention to the disappearance of cultural events that for years were the city’s hallmark. A change of government in 2023, when members of the Partido Popular (PP) and Vox took over, led to a review of funding and formats for many traditional festivities.
The organizers decided to hold a symbolic funeral for festivals that were either cancelled or put on hold. Names of once-popular events appeared on makeshift coffins: a painting contest, a music festival, and literary gatherings. According to participants, the city is gradually losing its cultural identity, giving way to more traditional and religious celebrations.
Why festivals are disappearing
Many projects once supported by the municipality now have to go through complicated bureaucratic procedures. Authorities insist on transparency and the need for competitive funding processes. However, organizers point out that new rules delay the events’ schedules, and some festivals can no longer take place at all. For example, a music festival that used to bring together young performers each year failed to secure support in 2025 and was cancelled.
A similar situation has developed with other cultural initiatives. The literary festival, which attracted storytellers from across the country, also came under threat due to new organizational requirements. Some competitions lost funding because organizers refused to comply with conditions set by the municipality. As a result, residents believe the city is losing the diversity of its cultural life.
Response from Authorities and Residents
The municipality tried to challenge the legitimacy of the event, stating that it did not meet safety requirements and was not recognized as an official holiday. Nevertheless, the organizers secured permission from higher authorities and held the march despite protests from the administration. Locals believe such events are the only way to draw attention to the disappearance of cultural initiatives.
Many participants are convinced that if they don’t defend their right to a vibrant cultural life, the city will lose its unique character for good. They hope their protest will send a message to the authorities and help restore the traditional festivals and events that once united people of all generations.
