The hemicycle of València's city council was the venue for the awards ceremony of the cruces de mayo competition, a celebration that showcased 97 floral compositions across various locations in the city, once again filling the streets with flowers, creativity, and tradition.
Mónica Gil, the Councillor for Festivals and Traditions, highlighted the hard work, dedication, and commitment of the commissions, entities, and associations that contribute each year to preserving one of València's most cherished traditions. During her speech, she emphasised the hours of effort, love, and creativity behind each floral arrangement, as well as the involvement of those who ensure this custom remains an integral part of the city's life and streets.
The event was attended by notable figures including José Vicente Navarro, president of Lo Rat Penat; Inmaculada Traver, the regina dels Jocs Florals; and the major falleras of València, Beatriz Blanco and Julia Vizcayno, along with representatives from participating commissions and associations.
This year's edition held special significance due to its connection with the III Holy Chalice Jubilee Year. This commemoration was reflected in numerous compositions, which aimed to honour one of the most important symbols of the city's Christian history and tradition. In this context, the extraordinary prize 'Santo Cáliz de Valencia' was awarded to the Falla Plaza Arzobispo Amigó – Cuenca. Mónica Gil congratulated the winning entity and all participants in this category for their contributions to highlighting València's religious heritage through their floral creations.
Additionally, the Junta de Festes Mare de Déu dels Desemparats de Patraix received the extraordinary prize 'Paco Domingo' in the Special Section, while the Falla Archiduque Carlos – Músico Gomis was honoured with the extraordinary prize 'Pere Delmonte' in the First Section. The councillor extended her congratulations to all award-winning entities and expressed her appreciation for the involvement, creativity, and effort of all participating commissions, associations, and groups, which enhance each edition of the competition.
José Vicente Navarro, president of Lo Rat Penat, recalled that since 1925, the organisation has participated in, convened, and organised this competition in collaboration with the València city council to keep alive the tradition of decorating the streets during the Feast of the Holy Cross, celebrating the month of Mary, and contributing to the beautification of the city, allowing all citizens to partake in this distinctly Valencian tradition. “To all those who make this festival possible: fallas, parishes, associations, and brotherhoods, thank you for your effort and dedication to keeping this tradition alive and for understanding that what truly matters is participation in this competition, which surprises both Valencians and visitors alike each year,” Navarro emphasised.
