Last Saturday, August 29, Utiel kicked off its patron saint festivities with the presentation ceremony of the Queen of the Utiel 2026 Fair and Festivities, Ms. Marta Pérez Giménez, and her 20 Maids of Honor.
The Rambal Theater hosted the proclamation of the Queen, in an event where Joan-Carles Martí Espí, director of Levante-El Mercantil Valenciano, served as the keynote speaker. Martí Espí, who studied History at the University of Valencia, focused his speech on the figure of the Utiel playwright Enrique Rambal, commemorating the 70th anniversary of his death, the resilience of the land in the face of adversities like the DANA, and the capacity to celebrate through the youth and enthusiasm represented by the Queen and her Court of Honor.
For his part, the mayor of Utiel, Ricardo Gabaldón, wished the Queen and Maids of 2026, as well as their families, an unforgettable experience as representatives of the municipality. He also thanked the work of his predecessor, Ms. Victoria Gabaldón, and her court of honor.
Ricardo Gabaldón wished happy festivities to all the residents and visitors of Utiel, and thanked the efforts of the festivities councilor, the Festivities Commission, and all the individuals, entities, and institutions involved in organizing the 2026 festivities.
To conclude the event, the courtyard of the Casa Alamanzón served as the stage for a performance by the group “Caminos Secundarios”.
From the Utiel City Council, a warm congratulation was extended to this year's Queen and Maids, encouraging them to enjoy these festive days that will represent an indelible memory in their personal journey.
