Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to Honor 16 Recipients at 548th Anniversary Ceremony

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is getting ready to celebrate its 548th anniversary with a special ceremony honoring the people and groups who have helped shape the city’s recent history. The event will take place on June 23rd at the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, where 16 recipients—ranging from musicians and scientists to community activists—will be recognized for their contributions.

The city council approved these awards last May to highlight both internationally known figures and essential local organizations. Among those receiving the Gold Medal is artist Pedro Luis Domínguez Quevedo, who has played a key role in promoting the city’s music scene. Other Gold Medal recipients include Hospital San José, the Bientratar Association, the Coral Cantata of the Real Club Victoria, the Federation of Folk Groups of Gran Canaria, the Clipper brand, Astilleros Canarios (Astican), and the Artemi Neighborhood Association.

The title of "Favorite Son or Daughter"—awarded to those born in the city or with deep ties to it—will go to orchestra director José Brito López, footballer Jonathan Viera Ramos, and choreographer Dácil González Ruiz. The city will also posthumously honor the multidisciplinary artist Roberta Marrero Gutiérrez to celebrate her creative legacy.

The "Adoptive Son or Daughter" category, which recognizes people born outside the city who have made a positive impact, will honor physicist and communicator Javier Santaolalla Camino, pulmonologist and professor José Antonio Caminero Luna, UNICEF representative Nereida Castro Martín, and physical education professor Cecilia Dorado García.

Held annually on the eve of St. John’s Day, this ceremony serves as a way to bring the community together. By honoring a mix of high-profile public figures and dedicated professionals in health, education, and local activism, the city council aims to celebrate the diverse talents that define Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.