Puerto de la Cruz Hosts Mascarita Ponte Tacón High-Heel Race

Puerto de la Cruz is getting ready to host "Mascarita Ponte Tacón" this Friday, February 20. Organizers say this event is a key part of the town's International Carnival. Thousands of people attend, and hundreds take part in this unique celebration. It has become a special display of the Canary Islands' festive spirit, mixing a physical challenge with freedom and creativity.

The main event is a one-of-a-kind race. Contestants walk about 600 meters, from Plaza de los Reyes Católicos to Plaza del Charco, all while wearing very high platform shoes. Even though the route is short, it requires skill and balance, making it a big draw for spectators. Last year, almost 450 people participated, showing how important it's becoming in the carnival schedule.

The day starts at 8:00 PM in Plaza de Reyes Católicos with registration and a check of heel heights. At 8:30 PM, Mayor Leopoldo Afonso, joined by local officials and "Pepe" – the oldest "Mascarita" and godmother for this year – will officially sign the awards from the Town Hall balcony.

This year, eleven awards, known as 'heels', will be given out. They cover different categories, recognizing things like stage presence ("Mascarita con Más Poderío"), best look ("Tacón Más Resultón"), determination ("Mascarita Más Tenaz"), creativity ("Mascarita Más Beacoup"), speed ("Mascarita Más Veloz"), and group or couple entries.

The jury, along with the mayor, will judge the participants at 10:00 PM, right before the race begins. The race will start from the San Telmo hermitage and finish in Plaza del Charco, which is always a highly anticipated moment. The awards ceremony is set for 12:00 AM. Juan Pedro Hernández, also known as "Lupita," the first winner of this event 36 years ago, will be there, along with the mayor and the Councillor for Festivities, Luis Javier González.

Mayor Leopoldo Afonso stressed that "Mascarita Ponte Tacón" truly captures the spirit of the local Carnival, showing Puerto de la Cruz as an open and welcoming place. Councillor for Festivities, Luis Javier González, added that the night highlights the participants' creativity and bravery, showcasing a way to enjoy Carnival freely and without holding back.

The party continues with a night of music and dancing on two stages. Plaza del Charco will feature performances by Lorna, Fulanito, Ariel de Cuba, and Fátima Falcón. Meanwhile, DJs Lombana, Dream, Adam Lorr, and Santora will keep the energy high in Plaza del Escultor Ángel Acosta, ensuring a festive atmosphere for everyone.

This year's "Mascarita Ponte Tacón" once again proves Puerto de la Cruz is a leader in hosting carnival events that are original, encourage public involvement, and have a strong celebratory spirit.