Calanda’s Drumbeat Gets a Revival Boost on Good Friday
When Spain’s pandemic lockdowns hit the streets, it wasn’t just the parades that got put on hold—Calanda’s legendary Good Friday drum session also lost its spotlight.
“Time to Shake Things Up” – The Drum Runners
But in the quaint town of 3,700, the residents decided to give the old “Rompida de la Hora” a fresh spin. Picture a colorful parade of artisans in bright purple, marching through rooftops and balconies while keeping a safe, socially‑distanced distance.
And the beats? Oh, they thundered louder than ever—each drum hit a tiny explosion of joy, echoing from street corners to the very houses themselves.
“I’d rather be with my crew, drumming away,” says 24‑year‑old Ivan Rodriguez
With a grin, Ivan reminded us how the pandemic’s silence made every rhythm feel so much heavier, yet the community’s spirits didn’t break. “This Holy Week feels… dimmer,” he said, “but we’re holding on, hoping the next year we can finally jam together again.”
“A strong need to carry on the rhythm,” adds Santiago Villanueva
Years of hardship left the town wistful, but Villanueva filled the air with hope. “We’re living a sad time, yet the spirit of the drum still crackles strong,” he said.
The Verdict: A Resurgence of Tradition
Even with the drums echoing through a 3,700‑point community, the heartbeat of Calanda’s Good Friday tradition didn’t quit. The people proved you can keep a rhythm alive, even when the whole world goes silent. And if they were lucky, next year the crowd may be louder than ever, with friends, drums, and pure joy marching in harmony.
