Tenerife Hosts Weekend of Traditional Festivals to Boost Local Culture and Economy
Tenerife is hosting a vibrant series of traditional pilgrimages and folk festivals this weekend across Güímar, Arico, Candelaria, and La Orotava to celebrate the island's cultural heritage and boost the local economy.
Tenerife’s cultural calendar is busier than ever this weekend, highlighting how local festivals continue to bring communities together and boost the island's economy. The municipalities of Güímar, Arico, Candelaria, and La Orotava are all hosting celebrations that showcase the rich traditions and heritage of the Canary Islands.
These romerías (pilgrimages) and bailes de magos (traditional folk dances) are more than just parties; they are essential for keeping the island’s identity alive. The festivities kick off this Friday, July 17, with the Paseo Romero in Chimaje (Güímar) at 7:00 p.m., followed by the Paseo Barquero in La Jaca (Arico) at 8:00 p.m., which will feature an open-air dance with the Atlantic and Malibú Band orchestras.
On Saturday, July 18, the action moves to the Plaza de Santa Ana in Candelaria. This event combines a traditional pilgrimage dinner with a dance for folk dancers and fishermen, featuring performances by Pepe Benavente, Furia Joven, and Revelación. Organizers have set a strict dress code—traditional or fisherman attire is mandatory—and tickets must be purchased online in advance. The local council is also prioritizing sustainability, encouraging the use of reusable materials to keep the event eco-friendly as it runs into the early hours of Sunday morning.
The weekend wraps up on Sunday, July 19, with two major events. In La Orotava, the Aguamansa Pilgrimage begins at 5:00 p.m. at the Velo chapel, heading toward the church square with music from the Samady Band and a ceremony to hand over the festival committee duties for 2027. At the same time, the Puertito de Güímar will host its own Paseo Romero at 6:00 p.m., featuring a folkloric procession along the Marítima avenue.
These events draw thousands of residents and visitors, proving just how vibrant the region's musical and cultural traditions remain. Organizing these celebrations requires significant effort from local authorities to manage safety, crowds, and public spaces, ensuring these beloved traditions continue to thrive across the archipelago.