For a few days each July, the streets of La Laguna feel as though they’ve stepped back in time.
Traditional dress replaces everyday clothes, folk music fills the air, decorated carts roll through the historic centre and thousands of people come together to celebrate one of Tenerife’s oldest and most cherished festivals.
Now, another edition of the San Benito Abad celebrations has come to an end, closing the book on a tradition that has been part of La Laguna’s identity since the 16th century.
The Romería remains the highlight
As always, the centrepiece of the celebrations was the Romería of San Benito Abad, one of the Canary Islands’ best-known traditional festivals and officially recognised as an event of National Tourist Interest.
Hundreds of people dressed in traditional Canarian costume joined beautifully decorated carts as they made their way through the city’s streets, accompanied by folk groups, local music and plenty of food and wine.
It’s one of those events where visitors quickly realise they’re not watching a performance. They’re witnessing a tradition that’s still very much alive.
More than just one day of celebrations
While the romería attracts the biggest crowds, the festival offers far more than a single procession.
Over the course of the celebrations, La Laguna hosted concerts, children’s activities, artisan markets, demonstrations of traditional Canarian sports and community events that brought together residents of all ages.
It’s this mix of culture, history and community spirit that has helped the festival remain so popular after more than four centuries.
Honouring the patron saint of farmers
At the heart of the celebrations is San Benito Abad, the patron saint of farmers.
His feast day has long been associated with giving thanks for the land, the harvest and the agricultural traditions that shaped life across Tenerife long before the island became known for tourism.
Although modern La Laguna has changed enormously over the centuries, those rural roots are still proudly celebrated every year.
Looking ahead to next year
As the music fades and the streets return to normal, another chapter in one of Tenerife’s most important festivals comes to a close.
For residents, it’s a chance to reflect on traditions passed down through generations.
For visitors, it’s often one of the most authentic experiences the island has to offer.
And if history is anything to go by, San Benito Abad won’t have to wait long before the people of La Laguna are ready to celebrate all over again next summer.