Tenerife Prepares for Weekend of Traditional Cultural Celebrations

The Canary Islands are gearing up for a busy weekend of traditional celebrations, highlighting the enduring spirit of Tenerife’s local culture. These events are more than just parties; they are vital ways for the community to come together and keep their heritage alive, standing strong against the rise of modern, standardized entertainment.

The festivities run from Friday, May 22, to Saturday, May 23, across several locations:

Friday, May 22

• Santa Úrsula: The 27th La Corujera Pilgrimage begins at 5:00 p.m. The procession travels from La Tosquita to the town square, where "Tu Dúo D&P" will provide live music.
• Tacoronte: The 22nd La Caridad "Baile de Taifas" (a traditional dance) starts at 9:00 p.m. This free event requires traditional attire and prior booking (call 616 82 73 64). It features folk groups from across Tenerife and Gran Canaria, including Surco y Arado, Isogue, Los Aceviños, Higa, and A.F.C. Guarache.

Saturday, May 23

• La Laguna: There is plenty to choose from. The Plaza del Tranvía in La Cuesta hosts groups like Ariferint, Princesa Iraya, and others starting at 7:30 p.m. Later, at 10:00 p.m., dances will be held at the Las Mercedes Pavilion and in the town of Guamasa, where the "Romera Mayor" (Pilgrimage Queen) will be crowned in honor of Saint Isidore.
• Los Realejos: The town center comes alive with celebrations starting at 11:00 p.m.
• El Sauzal: The Plaza de Ravelo hosts a traditional Canary Islands dinner and dance beginning at 9:00 p.m.
• Puerto de la Cruz: A traditional pilgrimage procession kicks off at 4:00 p.m. at the Martiánez Shopping Center. Fourteen ox-drawn carts will parade through the town, arriving at the fishing pier by 8:00 p.m. The festivities will continue until midnight, featuring local food, regional wine, and live music.