The Descent of the Virgin of Las Nieves

The Night of the Pandorga

The Pandorga is an especially emotional and family-oriented night.
In the days leading up to it, children and adults create handcrafted lanterns filled with color and creativity.

At nightfall, families gather and walk down from Avenida del Puente, moving through the streets of the historic center accompanied by the municipal band. Thousands of lights illuminate the city, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

Today, the Pandorga symbolizes the light that guides the Virgin’s path toward the capital and represents childhood wonder within the Lustral celebrations.

The Minuet

The Minuet is one of the most elegant and visually striking events of the Bajada.
Inspired by the gardens and palaces of Versailles, this ballet recreates the aesthetics of the 18th century through carefully designed choreography, classical music, and refined costumes.

Although it premiered in 1945, it has become an essential classic and one of the most eagerly awaited moments of the festivities.

The Allegorical Carriage, the Dance of the Acrobats, and Other Traditional Acts

The Allegorical and Triumphal Carriage and the Dance of the Acrobats add theatricality and symbolism to the program.
Music, scenery, and movement combine to reinforce the baroque character of the festivities and their artistic richness.

The Descent of the Virgin

The Bajada itself is the central act of the celebrations.
The image of the Virgin of Las Nieves descends from her sanctuary to the historic center, accompanied by a massive crowd.

In 2025, this moment took place on July 12, becoming one of the most intense and emotional days of the entire celebration.

The Dialogue Between the Castle and the Ship

This is one of the most spectacular and symbolic events.
As the Virgin approaches the city, a fictional naval battle is staged.

A castle positioned on high ground engages in dialogue with a ship located near the Alameda. Cannon fire and sound effects recreate the confrontation, heightening public anticipation. After the dialogue, the Virgin continues her journey toward the Parish Church of El Salvador, followed by thousands of people.

The Welcoming Loa

When the Virgin reaches Plaza de España, the Welcoming Loa takes place.
This is a musical composition performed by a choir, soloists, and a symphony orchestra.

It is one of the most solemn and emotional moments of the entire Bajada. Devotion, silence, and music merge into a single instant that many consider the spiritual heart of the festivities.

The Return Procession

The celebrations conclude on August 5 with the Return Procession.
The Virgin returns to her sanctuary in an act of great solemnity.

It is a farewell filled with emotion, promises, and gratitude. A closing moment that marks the end of the lustral cycle and leaves a lasting impression until the next Bajada.

The Dance of the Dwarfs: The Symbol of the Bajada

The Dance of the Dwarfs is the most iconic and anticipated event of the Lustral Festivals. Its origins date back to 1833, and it has since become a unique cultural symbol.

A total of 24 dancers participate, men and, since 2025, also women, selected through a demanding audition process.
They begin dressed in identical tunics, whose design changes with each edition.

After passing through a small booth, the secret transformation into the Dwarfs takes place, featuring their characteristic numbered hats from 1 to 12. From that moment on, they dance to the rhythm of a polka performed by the San Miguel Municipal Band.

After several performances at the fairground, the Dwarfs walk along O’Daly Street, known as Calle Real, spreading their magic through the city until dawn.