Cipotegato facts for kids
The Cipotegato is a special tradition that happens every year in Tarazona, Spain. It takes place on August 27th at noon. This exciting event is part of the town's celebrations for their patron saint, Saint Atilano. These festivities are so important that they were recognized as being of Regional Interest in 1998 and then of National Interest in 2009!
The Cipotegato is a mysterious character who wears a hood and a colorful harlequin-style costume with yellow, red, and green stripes. On the main day of the Tarazona fiestas, exactly at midday, the Cipotegato steps into the town square. A path is cleared for them by friends and past Cipotegatos. As they cross the square, people in the crowd playfully throw tomatoes. If the Cipotegato makes it across successfully, they are then lifted onto the special sculpture built in their honor in the square. Each year, a new Cipotegato is chosen by drawing lots from the young people of the town.
The Story Behind the Cipotegato
Long ago, Tarazona had a unique tradition during its annual fiestas. A person was given a chance to prove their bravery. This person was given a stick with a string and a ball at the end, much like what the Cipotegato carries today. The challenge was to leave the town.
The person would be released into the middle of the town square. As they tried to make their way out of town, the townspeople would try to stop them. If they managed to get out of town, they would be celebrated. This old tradition has evolved over time into the fun and colorful Cipotegato celebration we see today, where tomatoes are thrown in a friendly way instead of stones.
See also
- Fiestas of National Tourist Interest of Spain
- Cipotegato para niños (In Spanish)
Images for kids
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A robot, symbolizing learning and discovery.
