La Opinión de Murcia
Qué es 'La Orillica del Quijal', la fiesta anterior a Halloween que se celebrab…
La memoria de esta tradición ha quedado recogida en un documental dirigido por el difunto artista Luis de Hoyos Medina
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Unearthing Murcia's Ancient "Trick or Treat" Tradition: A Local Precursor to Halloween
Murcia, Spain – A recent viral video from the cultural heritage account 'Edificios Catalogados Murcia' has ignited public interest by revealing a fascinating and largely unknown local tradition from the Huerta de Murcia, drawing intriguing parallels to modern Halloween celebrations. Uploaded on October 26, 2025, the video, presented by a local expert, asserts that a unique custom observed on the eve of All Saints' Day in the region predates the widespread adoption of the international 'trick or treat' practice. According to the presenter, children in the Huerta, affectionately known as 'zagalicos,' would historically visit their neighbors' homes. Instead of the familiar 'trick or treat,' they would chant a distinctive rhyme: 'La orillica del quijal, si no me la das, te rompo el portal.' This chant, which translates to 'The edge of the ditch, if you don't give it to me, I'll break your door,' was a lighthearted demand for seasonal fruits. These natural sweets, including pomegranates, dates, loquats, and quinces, were typically grown in the 'quijales' – the fertile banks alongside the region's traditional irrigation channels. The tradition underscores a long-standing community practice of sharing and festive exchange, offering a compelling local narrative that mirrors the core elements of contemporary Halloween. The video serves as a valuable educational tool, inviting viewers to delve deeper into Murcia's rich historical and cultural tapestry, emphasizing the enduring nature of local customs in a globalized world.
