ASOCIACIÓN CULTURAL GRUPO DE DANZAS SAN SEBASTIAN DE REINOSA
The "San Sebastián Dance Group" Cultural Association, based in Reinosa, Cantabria, is consistently engaged in the preservation, recovery, and promotion of traditional Cantabrian folklore, with a particular focus on the dances, music, costumes, and cultural expressions characteristic of the Campoo region.
Throughout the 2024–2026 period, the group has actively participated in folklore festivals, cultural gatherings, traditional showcases, performances, and public celebrations, representing Cantabria’s cultural identity in various settings and contributing to the safeguarding and transmission of its intangible cultural heritage.
In 2024, the group expanded its reach beyond the borders of Cantabria by participating in significant folklore events. Of particular note was its international participation in the 35th edition of the Folklore Festival (*XXXV Festa de Folclore*), organized by the "São Miguel de Anreade" Folklore and Ethnographic Group in Anreade, Portugal—a cultural exchange experience that provided an opportunity to showcase Cantabrian traditions while engaging with other forms of European folklore.
Furthermore, the group participated in the 41st Gastronomy and Folklore Fair of Valladolid—in collaboration with the *Casa de Cantabria* (Cantabrian Center)—and the "Aires de Murcia" National Folklore Festival, while simultaneously maintaining a high level of activity within Cantabria itself. Notable performances include appearances at the European Festival at the *Palacio de Festivales* in Santander, the FECAF "Cantabria Baila" (Cantabria Dances) gala, the "La Perla del Valle" Folklore Festival, and various traditional celebrations.
In 2025, the group continued its work of promoting Cantabrian folklore and engaging in the cultural life of the local community, reaffirming its commitment to representing the traditions of Reinosa and the Campoo region. A detailed list of this year’s performances can be attached to this presentation as a supplementary document.
In 2026, the group continues its cultural and artistic endeavors through participation in traditional festivities, festivals, and gatherings, both at a regional and national level. The schedule includes the event "Roots of Valdearroyo: Reviving Our Identity," the FECAF "Cantabria Baila" gala, the PROA Cantabrian Folklore Gala, the "La Perla del Valle" Folklore Festival, and numerous other events centered on Cantabrian traditions. Outside the autonomous community, activities include participation in the 2nd "Llanes con Sabor" (Flavors of Llanes) gathering—dedicated to *Ollas Ferroviarias* (railway-inspired stew pots)—held in Llanes, Asturias.
In addition to stage performances, the association promotes cultural outreach and participation initiatives; notable among these is "Noche Encuentada," an original program designed to highlight the culture and traditions of Reinosa. The group also conducts educational and awareness-raising activities aimed at promoting knowledge and preservation of traditional customs and dances. The San Sebastián Dance Group views festivals as spaces for encounters between peoples—opportunities to exchange experiences and foster mutual understanding through music and dance. Its roots in the Campoo region and Cantabria, combined with experience gained at national festivals and participation in international gatherings, provide a solid foundation for further expanding its presence within folk circuits in other countries.
Joining an international festival association would offer the opportunity to introduce the richness of Cantabrian folklore to new audiences, establish relationships with groups from diverse cultures, and contribute to the safeguarding and promotion of the varied traditional heritage found throughout Europe and the rest of the world.
UAMPA APS (Italy)
