Gala in Seville: Paz Vega and Manuel Carrasco Honored with Favorite Children of Andalusia Titles

The 2026 Andalusia Day celebrations gathered the most important figures from the worlds of culture, art, and politics in Seville. The central point of the ceremony was the gala awarding the Medals of Andalusia and the region's highest civil distinctions – the titles of Favorite Child (Hijo Predilecto). This year, this honor befell actress Paz Vega and singer Manuel Carrasco. In her emotional speech, Vega emphasized that although she has worked in many countries, her true homeland has always been Andalusia, which shaped her character and passion. Meanwhile, Manuel Carrasco used the moment of receiving the award to appeal for the protection of public healthcare, which met with a significant public response. The ceremony also had a strong symbolic dimension related to the region's history. Andalusia Day commemorates the referendum of February 28, 1980, in which residents voted for broad regional autonomy, paving the way for the establishment of the Andalusian government. During this year's gala, medals were also received by model and presenter Eva González and bullfighter Morante de la Puebla. González, who has hosted this gala many times, this time appeared in the role of an awardee, not hiding her emotion and emphasizing pride in her roots. Morante de la Puebla dedicated his distinction to the entire community associated with the bullfighting tradition, considering it an award for his entire professional career. The event took place amid debates on Andalusian identity and the future of public services. Some commentators and politicians pointed out that the true defense of the region should manifest in care for schools and hospitals. In Malaga and other cities, the holiday was celebrated by cultivating local traditions, such as eating typical Andalusian sweets or decorating homes with flags (Arbonaida). The flag's colors – green and white – refer to the historical heritage of Al-Andalus, symbolizing hope and peace. This year's public opinion polls indicate that for many residents, the current regional president, Juan Manuel Moreno, is becoming, alongside historical leader Blas Infante, one of the recognizable symbols of modern Andalusian identity. The entire celebration concluded with the singing of the anthem, whose lyrics still spark debates regarding the use of the phrase "Spain" or "peoples." It is worth noting that the February 28 festivities are not only official galas but also a moment of increased interest in local tourism. Many people use the day off to visit charming white villages (pueblos blancos) or participate in festivals in Malaga, where history meets modernity. However, the gala in Seville showed that the heart of the community remains its people – artists, creators, and citizens who, through their talent, promote the region worldwide. „He trabajado en muchos países, pero siempre he sabido que mi patria está aquí.” (I have worked in many countries, but I have always known that my homeland is here.) — Paz Vega