Celebrate the Canaries: Festivals and Traditions to Experience

Carnaval

One of the most famous celebrations in the Canary Islands is the Carnival, held in February and March. Each island hosts its own version, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria’s events being the most spectacular. This vibrant festival features parades, elaborate costumes, music, dancing, and various performances. The Carnival Queen contest and the Drag Queen Gala are highlights that draw international attention.

Semana Santa

During Easter, the Canary Islands hold a host of processions and religious ceremonies. Holy Week, or Semana Santa, is particularly significant in cities like La Laguna in Tenerife and Las Palmas in Gran Canaria. Participants dress in traditional robes and carry religious statues through the streets, creating a poignant and reflective atmosphere.

Corpus Christi

In June, the islands celebrate Corpus Christi by creating floral carpets that decorate the streets, especially in La Orotava (Tenerife) and La Laguna. These stunning displays, made from coloured sands, flowers, and other natural materials, are created by local artists and communities in a tradition that dates back centuries.

Fiestas de San Juan

On the night of June 23rd, the Fiestas de San Juan are celebrated with bonfires, fireworks, and beach parties across the Canary Islands. This midsummer festival marks the summer solstice and is particularly popular in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife. Locals and visitors gather to enjoy music, dancing, and traditional food across the archipelago.

August 15th marks the feast of Our Lady of the Candelaria, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. Pilgrims from across the islands travel to the Basilica of Candelaria in Tenerife to honour the Virgin. The event includes religious ceremonies, folk music, dances, and a lively market.

Bajada de la Virgen de los Reyes

Every four years, El Hierro celebrates the Bajada de la Virgen de los Reyes, a deeply rooted tradition where the statue of the Virgin Mary is carried in a grand procession across the island. This event, filled with music, dance, and colourful costumes, is a significant cultural highlight for the residents and attracts many visitors.

Fiesta de la Rama

On August 4th, Agaete in Gran Canaria hosts the Fiesta de la Rama, a lively festival where participants dance through the streets carrying branches, symbolizing the islanders’ plea for rain in ancient times. The festival culminates with a grand party featuring traditional Canarian music and dances.

Sabandeño Festival

In September, the Sabandeño Festival in Tenerife showcases the best of Canarian folk music. Held in La Laguna, this event brings together musicians from across the archipelago and further afield, celebrating the rich musical heritage of the islands.

Fiestas del Charco

Held on September 7th in La Aldea de San Nicolás, Gran Canaria, the Fiestas del Charco is a unique event where participants jump into a lagoon to catch fish with their bare hands, reenacting an ancient aboriginal tradition. This celebration also includes music and dance, alongside cultural activities.

Fiestas de San Andrés

In November, the Fiestas de San Andrés in Tenerife are celebrated with the “Arrastre de las Tablas” where locals slide down streets on wooden boards. The festival is also celebrated with the opening of new wine. This festival combines adrenaline-pumping fun with the joy of tasting the season’s new wines.

ENDS

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Images courtesy of Hello Canary Islands.

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