A significant annual celebration occurs in a South Texas municipality, characterized by elaborate displays of illuminated decorations. This event transforms the locality into a visually captivating spectacle, attracting visitors from surrounding areas and beyond.
The yearly occurrence provides substantial economic advantages to the region by fostering tourism and supporting local businesses. Historically, such displays have served as community gatherings, promoting a sense of unity and shared cultural experience while enhancing the area’s reputation as a destination for seasonal festivities. This enhances civic pride and contributes to the overall quality of life for residents.
The following sections detail the specifics of this event, including its origins, attractions, logistical considerations for visitors, and its long-term impact on the community. Information regarding scheduling, parking, and related activities will also be addressed.
1. Tradition
The yearly return of brilliant light displays in Hidalgo, Texas, is more than just a visual attraction; it represents a deeply rooted tradition, passed down through generations. This established ritual fosters community spirit and creates lasting memories for families throughout the region.
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Family Gatherings
The festival has become an annual touchstone for many families, marking the beginning of the holiday season. Grandparents share stories with grandchildren, recalling past celebrations and creating a sense of continuity. For some, missing the festival would feel like losing a vital part of their heritage.
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Cultural Preservation
The event incorporates elements of local culture, blending traditional holiday themes with unique regional expressions. Musical performances showcase local talent, and the food vendors offer familiar flavors cherished within the community. This melding of old and new helps preserve cultural identity.
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Community Bonding
Preparation for the festival involves extensive community participation. Volunteers dedicate countless hours to setting up displays and organizing events. This shared effort fosters a sense of camaraderie and belonging, strengthening social bonds within the city.
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Generational Storytelling
The light displays themselves often depict scenes from local history or folklore, providing visual narratives that spark conversations between generations. Parents and grandparents recount the stories behind the images, passing down historical knowledge and cultural values to younger family members.
The enduring appeal of the Hidalgo festival lies not just in the spectacular illumination, but in its ability to reinforce the traditions that bind the community together. Year after year, families return to relive cherished memories and create new ones, ensuring that this vibrant tradition will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.
2. Spectacle
The annual transformation of Hidalgo, Texas, into a vibrant tapestry of light is more than mere decoration; it’s a carefully orchestrated spectacle. This transformation, the core of the city’s renowned festival, doesn’t occur spontaneously. It’s the result of months of planning, dedicated effort, and a collective vision to create an immersive environment unlike any other. The effect is profound: the ordinary cityscape gives way to a wonderland of illuminated artistry, drawing visitors into a realm where the everyday fades and the extraordinary takes center stage. The sheer scale of the endeavorthe miles of lights, the intricate displays, the synchronized presentationsdemands attention and captivates the senses. Without this element of spectacle, the event would be reduced to a simple display, lacking the power to draw crowds and generate economic activity.
Consider the specific examples: the iconic illuminated nativity scene, meticulously crafted each year; the tunnel of lights, creating a walkable, immersive experience; and the nightly fireworks displays, synchronized with music, casting vibrant colors across the night sky. Each element is designed to maximize visual impact and evoke a sense of awe. The success of the festival hinges on this spectacle, attracting tourists from across the region and beyond. Local businesses benefit from the increased foot traffic, and the city gains national recognition. The spectacle becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy: the more impressive the display, the more people it attracts, and the greater its impact on the local economy and community.
In essence, the spectacle is not just a component of the festival; it is the festival. Without the visual grandeur and meticulously planned presentation, the event would lose its core appeal and its ability to draw crowds and generate excitement. Understanding this connection is crucial for the organizers, ensuring that each year’s display surpasses the previous one in both scale and creativity. This relentless pursuit of spectacle is the engine that drives the festival’s success and cements its place as a must-see destination during the holiday season. The challenge remains: How to maintain and elevate the spectacle while preserving the community’s cultural identity and traditions for years to come?
3. Community
Within the glowing spectacle that is the Hidalgo, Texas, festival, beats the heart of its community. It is not merely a display of lights; it is a reflection of the collective spirit, a tangible representation of shared values and aspirations. The festival’s existence, its vibrancy, and its enduring appeal are intrinsically linked to the community’s active participation and unwavering support. This relationship is not a passive one; it is a dynamic interplay, where the festival both shapes and is shaped by the people it serves.
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Volunteerism: The Foundation of Festivities
Long before the first bulb illuminates, the community rallies. Residents dedicate countless hours to constructing displays, managing logistics, and ensuring visitor safety. This voluntary effort isn’t just about manpower; it’s about ownership. Every meticulously placed light, every thoughtfully designed exhibit, is a testament to the community’s commitment to making the festival a success. For example, retired teachers dedicate their skills in crafting elaborate scenes, while local business owners provide resources and support, fostering a shared sense of responsibility.
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Local Economy: A Community’s Investment
The festival’s economic impact reverberates throughout Hidalgo, invigorating local businesses during what might otherwise be a slow season. Restaurants, hotels, and shops experience a surge in activity, providing employment opportunities and boosting revenue. However, this economic benefit is more than just a financial transaction; it’s a demonstration of community investment. Residents understand that the festival’s success translates into prosperity for the entire region, strengthening the bond between the event and the local economy.
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Shared Identity: A Beacon of Pride
The festival has become an integral part of Hidalgo’s identity, a source of collective pride that unites residents from diverse backgrounds. It’s a time when the community comes together to celebrate its shared heritage and values. Children grow up associating the festival with warmth, joy, and belonging, fostering a sense of connection to their hometown. This shared identity strengthens social cohesion and promotes a sense of community spirit that extends far beyond the festival season.
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Intergenerational Connection: Passing Down the Light
The festival serves as a bridge between generations, creating opportunities for families to connect and share experiences. Grandparents recount stories of past festivals, passing down traditions and values to younger family members. Children marvel at the lights, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This intergenerational connection reinforces community bonds and ensures that the spirit of the festival will endure for generations to come. For instance, many families keep photos and mementos from previous festivals, revisiting these cherished memories year after year.
Thus, the Hidalgo, Texas, festival is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a reflection of the community’s heart and soul. Its a place where the collective spirt comes alive.
4. Tourism
The annual illumination in Hidalgo, Texas, casts its glow far beyond the city limits, acting as a powerful beacon that draws tourists from across the region and beyond. This influx of visitors is not a mere byproduct of the spectacle; it is a vital component, intricately woven into the festival’s very existence. The cause-and-effect relationship is undeniable: the festival’s visual grandeur and festive atmosphere create a compelling draw, which in turn fuels the tourism sector, impacting local businesses and bolstering the city’s economy. Consider the practical significance: without the tourists who flock to see the lights, the festival’s scale would be drastically reduced, diminishing its impact on the community.
The effects of this tourism extend beyond simple revenue figures. Hotels and restaurants experience a surge in demand, creating employment opportunities and boosting local commerce. Small businesses, from souvenir shops to local artisans, find a wider audience for their products. Moreover, the festival generates positive media coverage, showcasing Hidalgo to a broader national and international audience. For example, families plan entire vacations around visiting the lights, contributing significantly to the local economy. This increased visibility can attract future investment and further enhance the city’s reputation as a desirable destination. However, the influx of tourists also presents challenges, such as managing traffic congestion, ensuring adequate parking, and maintaining public safety. These logistical hurdles require careful planning and coordination to minimize disruption to local residents.
In essence, the relationship between the festival and tourism is symbiotic. The festival relies on tourist dollars to sustain its elaborate displays and community programs, while tourism benefits from the unique attraction that the festival provides. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for ensuring the festival’s long-term success and maximizing its positive impact on the city of Hidalgo. By carefully managing the influx of tourists, mitigating potential negative consequences, and continually enhancing the visitor experience, the city can harness the power of tourism to fuel economic growth and further strengthen its community. The lights, therefore, are not just for show; they are a catalyst for economic activity and community enrichment.
5. Culture
The annual luminescence that bathes Hidalgo, Texas, is more than a seasonal adornment; it is a vibrant reflection of its culture. Generations of families, steeped in the traditions of the Rio Grande Valley, have contributed to the evolution of this festival, imbuing it with a unique character that distinguishes it from generic holiday displays. Consider the origin: While inspired by broader seasonal celebrations, the event adopted local customs, from the incorporation of traditional music and dance to the prevalence of regional cuisine within the festival grounds. This cultural infusion, rather than mere imitation, is the key to its enduring appeal.
The festival’s cultural impact extends beyond its overt displays. The artistic representations within the light arrangements frequently depict scenes from local history, paying homage to the region’s rich heritage. Stories of early settlers, indigenous traditions, and pivotal historical events are woven into the visual narrative, educating visitors and reinforcing the community’s collective memory. This act of cultural preservation, often subtle, ensures that the festival serves as a living testament to the region’s unique identity. Furthermore, local artists and artisans are actively involved, showcasing their work and contributing to the festival’s aesthetic. This collaboration provides a platform for cultural expression and strengthens the link between the event and the community it represents. As an example, consider the annual “Noche de Arte,” a dedicated evening where local artists display and sell their work within the festival grounds, further enriching the cultural experience.
In essence, the Hidalgo festival is not merely a spectacle of lights; it is a cultural mirror, reflecting the community’s identity, values, and traditions. Its importance lies in its ability to blend global celebrations with local customs, creating a unique and meaningful experience for visitors and residents alike. The challenge lies in preserving this cultural authenticity as the festival continues to grow and evolve, ensuring that the lights continue to illuminate not just the landscape, but also the heart and soul of Hidalgo.
6. Celebration
The annual illumination in Hidalgo, Texas, exists foremost as a celebration. This is not a secondary characteristic, but its foundational purpose. It is a moment seized from the everyday, transformed into a shared experience of joy, community, and tradition. The cause is the turning of the year, the approach of holidays, but the effect is the creation of a vibrant public space dedicated solely to collective festivity. The festivals importance hinges on its ability to evoke this feeling of celebration, to lift spirits and foster a sense of togetherness that transcends individual differences.
Consider the families who gather each year, their childrens faces alight with wonder as they traverse the illuminated pathways. For many, this event marks the beginning of the holiday season, a time for reunions, shared meals, and the reaffirmation of familial bonds. The celebration is not just in the visual spectacle, but in the memories created, the stories shared, and the traditions upheld. Local businesses participate, decorating their storefronts and offering special promotions, adding to the festive atmosphere. Community organizations host events, from live music performances to craft fairs, further enriching the celebration and providing opportunities for connection and engagement.
Ultimately, the Hidalgo festival’s enduring success stems from its unwavering commitment to the spirit of celebration. It provides a space where people can escape the stresses of daily life, reconnect with loved ones, and experience the joy of collective festivity. The lights themselves are merely the backdrop; the true magic lies in the shared experience, the sense of community, and the enduring memories created. As the festival continues to evolve, maintaining this focus on celebration will be crucial to its continued success, ensuring that it remains a cherished tradition for generations to come.
7. Attraction
The allure of illuminated artistry draws a myriad of gazes towards Hidalgo, Texas, annually. This pull, the power to captivate and beckon, forms the very essence of its celebrated festival. The festival, in its core, is a meticulously crafted exercise in drawing crowds, in becoming a destination etched in the memories of those who witness its luminous splendor.
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Visual Spectacle: The Magnetic Pull
The sheer scale and artistry of the lights act as the initial draw. Miles of meticulously arranged bulbs transform the cityscape into a wonderland, a landscape unlike any other. Families from neighboring states plan entire trips around experiencing this spectacle. The vibrant colors, intricate displays, and synchronized presentations create a sense of wonder, compelling visitors to return year after year.
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Festive Atmosphere: Beyond the Visuals
More than just lights, the festival cultivates an atmosphere of celebration. The air buzzes with excitement, fueled by live music, festive food vendors, and a general sense of communal joy. This combination of visual and experiential elements creates a holistic attraction, one that appeals to all the senses and lingers long after the lights have dimmed.
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Tradition and Nostalgia: The Enduring Appeal
For many, the Hidalgo festival is a cherished tradition, a yearly ritual that marks the beginning of the holiday season. This element of nostalgia adds another layer to its attraction. Generations of families have created memories amidst the lights, fostering a sense of connection and belonging that transcends mere spectacle.
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Community Involvement: The Heart of the Draw
The festival is not just a commercial enterprise; it is a community endeavor. Local residents dedicate countless hours to its planning and execution, imbuing it with a sense of authenticity and heart. This community involvement strengthens the festivals appeal, making it more than just a tourist attraction, but a genuine expression of local pride and spirit.
Ultimately, the drawing power of Hidalgo’s festival lies in its ability to blend visual spectacle with community spirit, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. It is a testament to the power of light, not just to illuminate the landscape, but to illuminate the human heart.
8. Illumination
In the heart of South Texas, where the Rio Grande whispers tales of history and heritage, lies the city of Hidalgo. Here, as winter’s embrace tightens its grip, a transformation occurs, a spectacle predicated on the profound concept of illumination. It is not merely the act of lighting up the darkness, but a deliberate crafting of an atmosphere, a visual language that speaks to the community’s spirit and the region’s cultural identity. The festival, then, is a canvas upon which illumination paints its vibrant story.
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The Canvas of Light: Urban Transformation
Illumination, in its most literal sense, alters the physical landscape of Hidalgo. Buildings are draped in cascades of colorful lights, parks become enchanted forests of illuminated displays, and the night sky pulsates with orchestrated bursts of fireworks. Streets, typically pathways of commerce and transit, are transformed into pedestrian promenades, lined with families captivated by the spectacle. This urban transformation is not accidental; it’s a calculated effort to create an immersive environment where the ordinary is replaced by the extraordinary. The city, for a brief period, sheds its mundane skin and dons a cloak of light and fantasy.
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Emotional Resonance: Evoking Wonder and Joy
Beyond its visual impact, illumination serves a deeper purpose: to evoke emotions. The warm glow of the lights, the vibrant colors, and the intricate designs stimulate a sense of wonder and joy. For children, the festival becomes a magical realm, a place where dreams come to life. For adults, it offers a respite from the daily grind, a chance to reconnect with their inner child and experience the simple pleasures of beauty and community. The very act of gathering under the lights, sharing the experience with loved ones, reinforces bonds and creates lasting memories. Illumination, then, becomes a conduit for emotional connection, a way to share joy and celebrate the spirit of the season.
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Cultural Storytelling: Light as Narrative
The illumination is not simply random; it tells a story. Many of the light displays depict scenes from local history, folklore, and religious traditions. These visual narratives educate visitors and reinforce the community’s cultural identity. The act of lighting up these stories transforms them into something tangible, something that can be experienced and shared. Illumination, in this context, becomes a powerful tool for cultural preservation, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to resonate in the present. From depictions of founding families to reenactments of historical events, the lights become a visual encyclopedia of Hidalgo’s rich heritage.
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Economic Impact: A Beacon of Prosperity
The illumination draws tourists, transforming the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and shops experience a surge in business, creating jobs and generating revenue. This economic boost is a direct result of the illumination’s ability to attract visitors, turning Hidalgo into a destination for seasonal festivities. The lights, therefore, are not just for show; they are a beacon of prosperity, illuminating the path to economic growth and community development. The increased revenue allows the city to invest in infrastructure, improve services, and further enhance the quality of life for its residents.
Illumination, in the context of the Hidalgo festival, is not merely a technique, but a transformative force. It shapes the urban landscape, evokes emotions, tells stories, and drives the local economy. It is the lifeblood of the festival, the element that binds it all together and makes it such a cherished tradition. Each carefully placed light, each meticulously designed display, contributes to a tapestry of experience that captivates, inspires, and celebrates the spirit of Hidalgo.
9. Memories
Within the radiant glow of Hidalgo’s annual festival resides something far more enduring than shimmering lights: memories. These are not mere afterthoughts, fleeting impressions lingering after the event. Instead, they are the very foundation upon which the festival’s significance is built. A cause-and-effect relationship exists: the festival, with its meticulously crafted displays and festive atmosphere, causes the creation of potent memories, which in turn, affect the community’s perception and engagement with the event year after year.
Consider the family album, passed down through generations, its pages filled with faded photographs of children standing wide-eyed before illuminated displays from festivals past. Each snapshot encapsulates a moment in time, a shared experience etched in the collective consciousness of the family. The practical significance lies in this generational transfer. These memories bind families together, instilling a sense of tradition and belonging. Children who experience the festival grow up associating it with warmth, joy, and a deep connection to their hometown. As they become adults, they return to the festival with their own families, seeking to recreate those cherished moments. This cycle ensures the festivals continued relevance and its enduring place in the community’s cultural landscape.
The essence is clear: The Hidalgo Festival is as much a repository of cherished memories as it is a spectacle of light. These memories are not simply a byproduct; they are the very lifeblood of the event, ensuring its longevity and its deep connection to the hearts of the community. The challenge for organizers lies in recognizing and nurturing these memories, creating new experiences that will resonate with future generations and ensure that the light of the festival continues to illuminate the path of tradition and shared history.
Frequently Asked Questions About the City of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights
As the annual event approaches, certain inquiries frequently arise. These questions, reflecting the concerns and curiosities of potential visitors, deserve clear and comprehensive answers.
Question 1: Is there an admission fee to enter the City of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights?
The narrative begins with a family, eager to witness the spectacle, arriving only to be confronted with unexpected costs. Fortunately, the tale concludes positively. Entry to the main festival grounds has traditionally been free, fostering accessibility for all members of the community. However, certain attractions within the festival, such as amusement rides or special exhibitions, might require separate ticket purchases. Checking the official festival website beforehand helps in budgetary planning.
Question 2: What are the parking arrangements near the City of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights, and are there associated costs?
Travelers often recount tales of circling for hours, searching for a suitable parking space amidst the throngs of festival-goers. While ample parking is provided, particularly during peak visitation times, these lots can fill rapidly. Official festival parking usually carries a fee, contributing to the logistical costs of managing the large influx of vehicles. Arriving early or utilizing shuttle services, if available, can alleviate parking challenges.
Question 3: Are pets allowed within the City of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights grounds?
A local legend tells of a beloved canine companion, inadvertently disrupting the delicate balance of a light display. To avoid such mishaps and ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors, the festival generally restricts pet access, with the exception of certified service animals. Prior confirmation with festival organizers is recommended to ascertain the most current pet policies.
Question 4: What measures are in place to ensure public safety during the City of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights?
Ensuring the well-being of attendees is paramount. Law enforcement personnel maintain a visible presence throughout the festival grounds, providing security and assistance. Additionally, emergency medical services are readily available to address any health concerns that may arise. Implementing awareness of designated first aid stations and emergency contact information is vital.
Question 5: Are there accommodations available within close proximity to the City of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights?
Given the festival’s popularity, securing lodging can pose a challenge. Numerous hotels and motels operate within a reasonable distance of the event, catering to a range of budgetary needs. Booking accommodations well in advance, particularly during peak season, is highly advisable to avoid disappointment.
Question 6: What types of food and beverages are available for purchase at the City of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights?
The culinary landscape of the festival offers a diverse array of options, ranging from traditional fair fare to regional specialties. Food vendors, carefully selected for their quality and variety, provide sustenance to hungry festival-goers. However, prices tend to be elevated due to the event’s captive audience. Exploring local restaurants before or after a festival visit can provide alternative dining experiences.
These frequently asked questions underscore the importance of preparation. A well-informed visitor enhances their overall experience and contributes to a more positive environment for all.
Moving forward, exploration into community feedback and long-term planning will provide insights in how the festival can improve.
Navigating the Spectacle
A yearly pilgrimage to the illuminated cityscape of Hidalgo requires thoughtful planning, a strategic approach honed by experience. Tales abound of families arriving unprepared, their festive spirit dampened by avoidable inconveniences. The following guidance, gleaned from seasoned attendees, aims to transform potential tribulations into smooth celebrations.
Tip 1: Prioritize Early Arrival: The gates to the illuminated realm open, attracting a surge of eager visitors. Arriving well before dusk mitigates the ensuing traffic congestion and secures favorable parking. Imagine the frustration of circling endlessly while the vibrant displays begin to ignite, a scenario preventable with proactive timing.
Tip 2: Embrace Public Transportation or Ride-Sharing: The limited parking capacity near the venue strains even the most patient drivers. Opting for public transportation or ride-sharing services alleviates parking woes, permitting focus on the visual delights. Consider the environmental benefit, contributing to a greener celebration.
Tip 3: Strategize the Route: The festival grounds, expansive and teeming with attractions, necessitate a planned itinerary. Studying the festival map beforehand allows efficient navigation, ensuring optimal exposure to the most captivating displays. Picture the disappointment of missing a key attraction due to aimless wandering, a fate avoidable through strategic route planning.
Tip 4: Layer Attire: The Texas winter, while milder than its northern counterparts, retains a capricious nature. Dressing in layers ensures adaptability to fluctuating temperatures, maintaining comfort throughout the evening. Visualize shivering uncontrollably amidst the illuminated beauty, a distraction easily remedied with layered clothing.
Tip 5: Secure Cash Resources: While many vendors now accommodate electronic transactions, unforeseen circumstances can arise. Maintaining a reserve of cash proves invaluable for spontaneous purchases or unexpected emergencies. Envision the inconvenience of being unable to acquire refreshments due to technological malfunctions, a situation readily circumvented with readily accessible cash.
Tip 6: Hydrate Strategically: The festive atmosphere and visual stimulation can mask the effects of dehydration. Carrying a reusable water bottle and refilling it throughout the evening ensures sustained well-being. Anticipate the discomfort of headaches or fatigue stemming from dehydration, avoidable through consistent hydration practices.
Tip 7: Designate a Meeting Point: Crowds, an inevitable component of such large gatherings, can lead to accidental separations. Establishing a predetermined meeting point provides a safety net, facilitating swift reunions should individuals become separated. Picture the anxiety of being unable to locate family members amidst the bustling throngs, a concern mitigated with a pre-arranged meeting location.
Diligent adherence to these practical guidelines transforms a potentially chaotic excursion into a seamless, memorable experience. Careful preparation enhances the appreciation of the artistic displays and fosters a deeper connection to the community spirit.
The culmination of planning ensures an enriching and safer festival experience, encouraging continued participation. Further exploration on community collaboration will enhance festival’s value in a long run.
The Enduring Glow
The preceding exploration has illuminated the myriad facets of the city of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights. From its roots as a community tradition to its current status as a regional attraction, the event’s impact extends far beyond mere aesthetics. Considerations of logistics, safety, and economic impact paint a comprehensive picture, revealing the festival’s interwoven relationship with the city itself. The narrative of the lights, however, truly lives in the collective memories it creates for those who attend.
As the final bulbs are extinguished each year and the crowds disperse, the festival leaves behind more than just darkened streets. It leaves a legacya promise of future gatherings, a reaffirmation of community spirit, and a challenge to continually innovate and elevate the experience. The city of Hidalgo, Texas, Festival of Lights, then, is not just an event; it’s an investment in the future, a beacon guiding the community towards continued growth and shared prosperity for years to come. May its glow endure.
