LA VAQUILLA

 

 

Nobody knows the origin of this celebration,but the oldest people of Colmenar say it has been celebrated since forever. It is a celebration
full of colour where the young people of the town run along the streets
next to the "vaquilla".

A "vaquilla" that weighs 40 kilos,made of wood, horn, handkerchiefs, ornaments.The "mayoral"is wearing a short
costume and will direct the steps. Meanwhile,the "taleguero" picks up
the  money from the "cuestacion".

On  saturday the 2nd of february,23"vaquillas"will dance with
their frame,at the town's square.The previous day ,on Friday,there will
be two conferences by honorary speakers of 2008, researchers Fernando Colmenarejo and Roberto Fernandez. The celebration of course, from 11 pm
on saturday at the big top,at bullring.This completes the festival of
the "vaquilla".

 

 

GLOSARY

 

Mayoral-a person who directs the "vaquilla".

Vaquilla-a wooden cow that imitates a heifer.

Talaguero-a person who picks up the money.

Vaquillero-a person who runs  with the "vaquilla".

Pregonero-a person who gives a speech.

Manton de manila-a type of handkerchief.

Cuestacion-a charity collection.

Rosquilla-a type of small muffin.

Costilla-a type of lined pole of the
vaquilla.