The Gijonesa group will celebrate its 25th anniversary parading on Fifth Avenue, becoming the only Spanish representative of the event. A milestone for Asturian culture against millions of spectators.
On March 17, San Patricio parade in the heart of New York, Asturian bagpipes will resonate strongly. The Band of Gaita ‘Villa de Xixón’ has been invited to participate in the iconic San Patricio parade, an event that brings together thousands of spectators on Fifth Avenue and is followed by 300 million people worldwide.
This is not the first time that Gijonese formation steals New York. They already did it in 2006, 2008 and 2014, leaving its mark and becoming recognized as the best foreign band of the parade. However, this occasion is special: the band celebrates 25 years of experience, and will do so representing Asturias and Spain in one of the most massive events of the international calendar.
A historical representation
With 50 musicians and a total of 75 people moving to New York, the ‘Villa de Xixón’ will march alongside emblematic formations such as the bands of the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Fire Department (FDNY), in addition to Irish and Scottish groups with centuries of history.
“It’s a dream come true,” confesses José Luis García, director of the band. “The effort has been enormous, with two years of preparation and considerable investment, but the illusion of musicians compensates for everything.” Despite receiving some aid, most of the expenses have been assumed by the group itself.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngsnjako0cc
A world showcase for Asturian culture
The impact of participation goes beyond the musical. “We could not have better ambassadors,” said Lara Martínez, Vice Minister of Tourism of the Principality of Asturias. “Bringing the Asturian bagpipe to such a big stage is a unique opportunity.”
The Gijón City Council has also supported the event. Ángela Pumariega, ViceAlcaldesa and Councilor for Tourism, stressed that the presence of the band in New York is a recognition of the Asturian musical tradition and one more step for the declaration of the bagpipe as a good of cultural interest.
A 2025 full of celebrations
The San Patricio parade will only be the beginning of a special year for the band. On the occasion of its 25th anniversary, ‘Villa de Xixón’ prepares new shows with the aim of modernizing and revitalizing the music of Gaita Asturiana. “We want to bring it closer to new generations without losing its essence,” explains Garcia.
Last weekend, as an advance on his trip to New York, the group offered an performance in the Plaza del Marqués de Gijón, at the foot of the Statue of Pelayo. It was a tribute to its history and an advance of what will be to come.
With the Asturian flag on high and the illusion of continuing to make history, the band of bagpipes ‘Villa de Xixón’ is ready to conquer New York once again. On March 17, between the green of San Patricio, Asturias red and blue will be noticed. By: Nahuel Leto
Relarged note: San Patricio Day Parade Guide on Long Island
