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On January 20, the municipality of Morales on the banks of the Simití arm, a branch of the Magdalena River, celebrates its patron saint festivities in honor of San Sebastián de las Palmas (Fiestas Patronales en honor a San Sebastián), patron saint of the town since the beginning of the 17th century, when the Spanish soldier Pedro Vicente de Morales gave to the newly founded town the name of this martyr from the 3rd century.
During these days in Morales, different religious and cultural activities are carried out such as troupe parades, concerts by guest artists and folkloric displays, with the Traditional Dance Festival that takes place within the framework of these festivities.
One of the most traditional events of these festivals is the popular gigantona parade, a procession in which the town's inhabitants carry a doll up to three meters high and which is typical of the festivals in some towns in Magdalena Medio and the Northeast. of Antioch.
The patron saint's day on January 20 is celebrated with baptisms, the solemn Eucharist and a procession through the streets of Morales with the image of San Sebastián.
In addition, the festivities incorporate sports competitions, popular games and activities for all ages, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity. These celebrations not only honor San Sebastián, but also strengthen the sense of community and preserve the cultural traditions of Morales, Bolívar.
