Santa Cruz Honors Local Culture and Linguistic Heritage at Canary Islands Day Awards

The recent Santa Cruz-Canary Islands Day Awards, held in the iconic Plaza de La Candelaria, was more than just a formal ceremony; it served as a powerful reflection of the archipelago’s cultural identity. As reported by El Día, the event celebrated local achievements while highlighting the urgent need to protect the Canarian dialect from fading away in an increasingly globalized world.

The musical group Soul Sanet, one of this year’s honorees, used their performance to emphasize the importance of preserving the islands' unique linguistic heritage. They noted that while social media and digital platforms make it easier for artists to share their work today, these same forces can threaten local dialects. The group, who grew up in the La Salud neighborhood, contrasted this modern digital ease with the 1990s, when local artists had to travel constantly to the mainland just to gain national recognition.

The ceremony capped off a day of festivities in Tenerife’s capital, drawing larger crowds than expected to areas like Calle de La Noria. Alongside Soul Sanet, other award winners included singer Besay Pérez, who performed traditional songs; the Tajaraste Cultural Association; the Guachipanduzitos Cultural, Musical and Sports Association; and social activist Julio Francisco Tacoronte.

Visitors from Madrid praised the event’s vibrant atmosphere, noting how well the community showcased its heritage through traditional clothing and local food. With performances by José Vélez and a closing fireworks display, the day proved to be a heartfelt celebration of culture in the heart of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.