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Sarah is visiting her friend Paco in the sunny city of Murcia. It is spring, and the city is full of bright flowers. Today is a very special day: the Bando de la Huerta!
"Come on, Sarah! Let's get ready," Paco says. They are in Paco’s house. "You can choose a costume." Paco is putting on a white shirt and a dark waistcoat. Sarah looks at the beautiful clothes on the bed. She chooses a long, red skirt with many colorful flowers. "I am wearing a traditional costume!" Sarah says happily. She looks in the mirror and smiles.
They walk together to the orchard, the famous Huerta of Murcia. "Look, Sarah! There is my grandfather's cottage," Paco says. He is pointing to a small white house with a straw roof called a 'barraca'. "In the orchard, there are many lemon trees and green vegetables. Can you see the big tomatoes?"
Sarah is surprised. "In London, we have the green countryside, but here the trees are full of yellow fruit! There are lemons everywhere. It is beautiful!"
Now, they are walking to the city square. There are many people in the streets. They are dancing, singing, and playing guitars. "Look at that big church!" Sarah says. She is looking at the tall Cathedral. "The sun is shining on the old stone. It is amazing!"
"Are you hungry?" Paco asks. "We can eat a traditional meat pie." They sit on a stone bench in the square and eat the delicious, crunchy pie. Sarah loves the taste. Then, Paco brings a plate of paparajotes. They are covered in sugar. "These are very special," Paco explains. "You can eat the sweet dough, but you can't eat the lemon leaf inside! It is just for the flavor."
Sarah is eating her paparajote. "It is delicious! I am having a great time today. Everyone is so kind."
"In London, we have many big parks," Sarah says to Paco. "But in Murcia, you have a beautiful Huerta! It is like a magic garden for the whole city."
Paco smiles. "I am happy you like our traditions, Sarah. The Bando de la Huerta is a day for friends!" They continue walking, enjoying the music and the sweet smell of orange blossoms in the warm air.
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