Garachico Prepares for 62nd San Roque Pilgrimage with Reinforced Transport Plan

Garachico is gearing up for one of its busiest days of the summer. This Sunday, August 16, the town will host the 62nd San Roque Pilgrimage, a Festival of National Tourist Interest that draws huge crowds of devotees and visitors.

Beyond its religious significance, the festival is a vital cultural and social event for the community. This year is particularly special, marking the tenth anniversary of San Roque’s patronage over the town and 25 years since he was named perpetual mayor. The tradition dates back to the early 1600s, when locals established the pilgrimage to give thanks after surviving a plague.

The day begins early with a performance by the Garachico Youth Fanfare, followed by a mass led by the Bishop of Tenerife, Eloy Alberto Santiago Santiago. The procession will travel to the Mother Church of Santa Ana, including a unique maritime crossing at the port. Afterward, a parade of carts, livestock, musical groups, and boats will accompany the saint back to his hermitage. The event concludes with the saint’s traditional backward entry into the temple, followed by a street party featuring performances by Wamampy, Malibú Band, and Nueva Fusión.

To manage the large crowds, the Cabildo of Tenerife has launched a reinforced transport plan. The bus company TITSA is adding 23,000 extra seats to line 363, which serves the northern region. Mobility Councilor Eulalia García is encouraging visitors to use public transport, noting that over 13,100 people chose to do so last year.

Drivers should be aware of significant traffic restrictions in the town center from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. During this time, central bus stops will be closed, with service moving to a temporary stop near the soccer field. Authorities have also warned that if traffic becomes too heavy, the TF-42 road will be closed to private cars between kilometers 0 and 7.8, prioritizing only buses and freight vehicles.