14,000 Gather in Garachico for Saint Roch Pilgrimage Amid Tradition and Tribute

The recent Saint Roch pilgrimage in Garachico proved once again how deeply rooted local traditions remain, even in the face of challenging weather and personal loss. Despite forecasts of rain in northern Tenerife, August 16th turned out to be a bright, sunny day, drawing an estimated 14,000 people to the town’s patronal festivities.

As one of the island’s oldest cultural events, this year’s celebration featured a schedule change to better protect the animals involved. By starting the route an hour earlier, organizers ensured the livestock could return to their stables sooner. The procession, which included 31 large carts and 15 smaller ones, wound through the historic center accompanied by folk groups and parrandas, highlighting the importance of preserving Canarian heritage.

The festive mood was tempered by the recent passing of Carlos Acosta, a local educator and writer. The community honored his memory during the procession by stopping in front of his home on Pérez Zamora Street. There, parish priest Marcos García led a prayer, and attendees read verses that Acosta had written for the festival during the pandemic.

Logistically, the day required careful planning. High midday temperatures kept the Red Cross and emergency teams busy treating several cases of heat exhaustion, while many attendees relied on traditional methods and plenty of water to stay cool.

The festivities concluded after the statue of the saint returned to the Santa Ana parish at 5:00 p.m., followed by a musical evening that lasted until midnight. The event served as a reminder of how these celebrations bring the community together, while also highlighting the complex task local authorities face in balancing large crowds with public safety and animal welfare.