Canary Islands Designates Valle de Guerra’s ‘Librea’ a Festival of Tourist Interest

The Canary Islands government has officially named the "Librea of Valle de Guerra" a Festival of Tourist Interest. This recognition highlights the event’s historical significance and its role in boosting the local economy and culture in La Laguna.

Held every second Saturday of October, the Librea is much more than a traditional celebration; it is a complex performance that blends faith, 16th-century military history, and community identity. The festival commemorates the Battle of Lepanto, honoring the local soldiers who, according to tradition, fought under Captain Francisco Díaz Pimienta with the help of the Virgin of the Rosary. The name "Librea" refers to the period-accurate uniforms worn by the guard during the procession, which mirror the formal attire once worn by the servants of nobility.

The La Laguna City Council pushed for this official status to help promote the festival to a wider audience. By integrating the event into tourism circuits, the council hopes to support local jobs and preserve cultural heritage. The performance itself is a grand affair, featuring military drills, a reenactment of the naval battle between Christian and Ottoman fleets, and music performed by the Nuestra Señora de Lourdes Band.

This new designation is a testament to the community of Valle de Guerra, which has kept this tradition alive for generations. By officially recognizing the festival, the regional government is helping to ensure that this unique blend of religious devotion and historical reenactment remains a vital part of Tenerife’s social fabric for years to come.