Dance of the Palitrocs of Benabarre: a living tradition in honor of Saint Medard
The Palitrocs dance of Benabarre is one of the most emblematic expressions of Ribagorza culture , uniting history, music, and community participation in the patron saint festivities of San Medardo , celebrated every June 8th . Within these celebrations, the day is filled with color and tradition with two events especially beloved by the locals: the shepherds' play and the Palitrocs dance itself.
The shepherds' play is a popular performance dating back to the 18th century , in which the townspeople portray the old masters and shepherds. During the procession through the streets of Benabarre, the most relevant and surprising events that have occurred in the town over the past year are recounted with humor and a touch of mischief. This review of village life becomes a moment of gathering, collective memory, and shared celebration.
The ball dels palitrocs is a traditional stick dance , performed to the rhythm of bagpipes and dulzainas (a type of oboe), although its musical history has been diverse. Originally, the violin provided the accompaniment; later, the saxophone took center stage. Over time, the Benabarre Band took over, and in recent decades, dulzaina and gaita players have restored an authentic and festive atmosphere to the dance, recovering the sound most closely linked to its roots.
In the past, the Palitrocs were danced in groups of four, forming four or five squares in total. The dancers wore white trousers and shirts , a red or blue sash, a flowered headscarf, and espadrilles with white socks . This simple yet striking attire reinforced the dance's identity and provided uniformity to the group.
Today, the tradition has been embraced by all generations. The group of dancers includes seniors, adults, young people, and even children, who learn the steps and characteristic rhythm of the choreography from a young age. This intergenerational transmission ensures that the Palitrocs dance of Benabarre remains alive and adapting without losing its essence.
The dance performance arrives with great anticipation. The square fills with locals and visitors who enjoy a high-energy spectacle, where the rhythmic tapping of sticks sets the beat and reinforces the festive spirit of the celebration. Beyond its value as a cultural expression, the dance is a major draw for cultural tourism in Ribagorza , making it an essential experience for those looking to discover what to do in Benabarre during its festivities.
On June 8th , the echo of the Palitrocs resonates in the heart of the town, a reminder that traditions, when lived and shared, become a heritage that transcends generations. Those who attend the Palitrocs dance in Benabarre not only witness a spectacle, but also participate, in some way, in the living history of this corner of Aragon.
