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It might only be September, but Cartagena is already thinking about Christmas. The Ayuntamiento has confirmed the final distribution of €22,000 in grants to support local nativity scene associations, with five organisations sharing the funding after a competitive application process that ran through the spring and summer.

 

The Cartagena Nativity Scene Association came out on top, scoring 90 points in the evaluation and receiving the largest grant of €6,804. The El Pincaho Sports and Cultural Association followed with €5,670 after achieving 75 points, while the El Buen Pastor La Aparecida Nativity Scene Association of Cartagena received €4,309.20. The Albujón Nativity Scene Association of Cartagena was awarded €3,855.60, and the Asociación Plataforma Concurso de Dibujo Dolorense-Salesianos El Castillito completed the list with €1,360.80.

 

The process has been running since the Ayuntamiento opened applications in May, with the call for proposals published in the Official Gazette of the Region of Murcia on May 22. After the application period closed and projects were reviewed, a provisional resolution was published on July 30, giving a ten-day window for appeals. None were received, and the final resolution was approved by Mayoral Decree on September 8.

 

The grants are open to non-profit nativity scene associations and foundations that are legally constituted and based in Cartagena. Projects were assessed on a range of criteria including the association's history and cultural significance, any awards or recognition it has received, workshops delivered during 2025 and the planned programme for 2026, covering exhibitions, events and activities promoting the nativity scene tradition.

 

Funds will be paid in full in advance by bank transfer, with each recipient subsequently required to submit an accounting report within three months of completing their subsidised activities. The report must include a summary of activities carried out, a list of expenses, invoices and proof of payment, and details of any other funding received. Associations must also acknowledge Ayuntamiento support in any publicity materials, including the official institutional emblem.

 

For anyone who has never experienced a traditional Spanish nativity scene display, the Belén, they're genuinely worth seeking out. Cartagena takes the tradition seriously, and this funding helps ensure it stays that way.

 

Image: Ayuntamiento de Cartagena