A farewell to 2023
As 2023 draws to a close, the #TICGALTeam has once again marked the end of the year with a celebration that’s as memorable as it is unique.
In the spirit of the festive season and embracing our Galician heritage, we at #TICGALTeam decided to lend a hand to the ever-busy Apalpador by receiving some gifts a bit early, all in good fun for being good kids throughout the year.
Capturing the essence of teamwork, our celebration commenced last Friday with a thrilling day packed with diverse activities, delightful surprises, and abundant joy. Meeting as a team has become a rare and cherished opportunity, an aspect we’re eager to enhance in the coming year.
Our adventure began at Laser Arena 22, a local venue where we played playful yet competitive laser tag games. Teams were mixed, cultivating a sense of unity and cooperation, and the air was thick with excitement and friendly rivalry. We ran, dodged, and aimed our laser guns for nearly an hour in a thrilling quest to save the universe and beat the other team. This stimulating experience wasn’t just about fun; it also strengthened our bonds and teamwork in an environment far from the usual office setting.
Post-laser tag, our energy levels needed replenishment. We found the perfect spot at a nearby restaurant where we shared meals, stories, and a lot of laughter. The relaxed atmosphere allowed us to unwind and enjoy each other’s company outside of work.
The afternoon brought with it a twist – a surprise secret visit. This unexpected part of our day is a tale to be told in the coming months, but it added mystery and excitement to our celebrations.
We rounded off our day at O Campiño, a place slowly becoming a tradition for our team gatherings. Here, amidst drinks and warm ambience, we shared laughs and reminisced about the year’s achievements and memorable moments.
This end-of-year celebration marked the conclusion of another successful year for #TICGALTeam and reinforced the unity and togetherness that make our team unique. We promise more exciting times as we look forward to the year ahead.
Oh, wait, what? OK, UXÍA also has something to say:
About O Apalpador
Just in case you haven’t heard about him. In the heart of Galician Christmas traditions stands O Apalpador, a unique and endearing figure deeply rooted in the folklore of the northwestern Iberian Peninsula. Unlike the more widely known Santa Claus, the Apalpador is depicted as a gentle giant or a coal miner who descends from the mountains at the end of the year. His mission is tender and caring: to visit children while they sleep on Christmas Eve, gently palpating their bellies to ensure they are well-fed and healthy. Along with this check-up, he leaves behind chestnuts and sometimes small gifts, symbolising abundance and well-being. The revival of this tradition in recent years not only adds a distinctive touch to Galician Christmas celebrations but also serves to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Galicia.
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