Dragon Park in the Canary Islands Celebrates 30th Anniversary: Celebrations and Honoring History

Dragon Park Celebrates 30 Years! Imagine: 30 years of history intertwined with the life of the town of Icod de los Vinos. A tree-witness that has seen generations change, people walk the paths, touch the ancient walls, and listen to the whisper of the ravines. And now, in honor of the anniversary, the park invites you to a special program with music, culture, and honoring those who have cared for the most famous tree not only in the city but also in all of the Canary Islands.

The celebration, organized by Icodtesa under the leadership of Gerardo Rizo, kicks off today, October 10, with the premiere of the performance "ROOT." It's something incredible: a combination of art and sensations from Lucas Balboa, with music by Juanjo Dexe and video by Carlos "Calato." The performance features talented artists from Icod: Fabiola Socas, Eduardo Rojo, Gustavo Campos, Tairuma Méndez, Ulises Díaz, Antonio Conejo, Mar Gutiérrez, the Le Mouve ballet, and Guanches de la Candelaria. Imagine: light, sound, and special effects from Espectáculos Tenerife SL. transform the Dragon into the main character of a unique performance where art meets nature.

And tomorrow, October 11, the celebration will continue with a musical concert in honor of Los Chincanayros. This is a famous folk group from the Canary Islands whose work is closely connected with the Dragon. They will be joined by Fabiola Socas and composer Eduardo Rojo, as well as the Metamorphosis Big Band. It will be a combination of tradition and modernity, a true musical journey into the history of the island. In addition, in the morning, an official ceremony will be held at Casa de los Cáceres to honor the members of the Technical Committee for their tireless work in preserving the Dragon and its territory.

Visit Dragon Park – it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in one of the most famous natural corners of the Canary Islands. In the heart of the park grows the majestic Dragon of Icod – a unique Dracaena draco tree that is over 800 years old. It is a symbol of the city, which was declared a national monument back in 1917.

But the Dragon's life has not always been easy. In the 20th century, the surrounding area changed greatly, threatening its existence. In 1924, there was even a landfill here, and then cases of vandalism became more frequent. In 1983, there was a small fire that made the authorities think about protecting the tree.

After that, biologist Juan Alberto Rodríguez advised bringing in a specialist. That's how American Kenneth Allen came to Icod, whose analysis became decisive. He insisted on removing the road that ran a few centimeters from the tree, improving the environment, and installing internal supports to preserve the Dragon. With the support of the then President of the Canary Islands, Jerónimo Saavedra, the road was moved, and a protected area was created around the Dragon. In 1995, construction of the park began according to the project of the Pastrana, Artengo y Menis studio.

Today, Dragon Park is three hectares where you can walk the paths, learn about various plants, see ancient irrigation canals, old walls, and historical remains such as the Molino alley. The Caforiño ravine, which flows through the park, emphasizes the connection with nature and makes this place ideal for walking, relaxing, and learning. The park has become an example of sustainable tourism, promotes environmental education, and from 2025 it will host the Canary Islands International Environmental Film Festival (FICMEC).

So, Icod de los Vinos celebrates the 30th anniversary of a unique place, 30 years of preserving nature, culture, and responsibility. Dragon Park is one of the most important tourist and historical centers of the Canary Islands. The Dragon remains a symbol of the Canary Islands, attracting thousands of visitors who come to admire its grandeur and immerse themselves in the history and culture of this place.

In addition to its botanical value, the Dragon has become a symbol of the region's identity, reminding us of the natural riches of Tenerife and the importance of preserving the treasures that make the Canary Islands unique.