Laguna to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the pilgrimage in honor of Saint Michael the Archangel
The San Miguel de Jeneto Lagoon will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the traditional pilgrimage in honor of Saint Michael the Archangel with a festive procession, music, and a religious service, following the recent renovation of the church.
In the village of Laguna San Miguel de Geneto this Sunday, October 5th, there will be a big celebration – the traditional pilgrimage in honor of Saint Michael the Archangel. The organizers are the local commission with the support of the La Laguna City Council.
Five carts, four carriages, one boat, and musical groups will participate in the festive procession: San Borondón, El Moral, Ariferint, Cumbres Gomeras, Aires Laguneros, Alcaluhade, and Leopoldo Morales.
Early in the morning, at 7:00 AM, a flower parade will pass through the streets of Laguna. At 12:00 PM, a festive service will be held in the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel. After the service, the icon of the saint will be brought out to meet the pilgrims. The meeting will take place near Las Cruces, where a short stop will be made. Pilgrims will also depart from La Piconera at 12:00 PM and follow the usual route to Bocatuerta. And after the procession, everyone will be able to dance near the local club to the music of Grupo Pa Ti and Orquesta ‘Generasión’.
The Mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, and the Councilor for Celebrations, Dailos González, invite everyone to this ancient and important pilgrimage for the city. This year marks its 30th anniversary, and it is a special event as the celebration will take place after the church renovation. The City Council thanks the organizers who make great efforts every year to preserve the traditions and culture of this pilgrimage.
This pilgrimage was started in 1995 by local organizations to showcase their customs and agricultural heritage. Usually, it is the last pilgrimage of the year in this region. Although Saint Michael is not considered the patron saint of peasants, locals call him "San Miguelito de las Viñas," that is, they associate him with grapes, which have always been grown here. Although the pilgrimage is still young, ribbon dances and other folk festivals were previously popular in Geneto.