The Romería de San Benito Abad in La Laguna remains one of Tenerife’s most cherished celebrations, bringing together thousands of people each year to honour the island’s agricultural heritage, traditional dress, music and rural customs.
Although today it is recognised as one of the Canary Islands’ most important pilgrimages, the event began as a modest neighbourhood celebration before gradually growing into a festival embraced by communities from across Tenerife.
From local gathering to island tradition
Over the decades, the San Benito Romería has evolved from a small local event into one of the highlights of Tenerife’s cultural calendar.
Each summer, groups from across the island take part in colourful processions featuring traditional Canarian costumes, decorated carts, folk music and dancing, creating an atmosphere that celebrates the rural traditions that helped shape Tenerife’s identity.
What was once a village celebration has become a festival that represents the agricultural history and cultural heritage of the entire island.
The perfect setting in historic La Laguna
The city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a fitting backdrop for the pilgrimage.
With its unique blend of historic streets, surrounding farmland and deep-rooted traditions, La Laguna has long served as a meeting point between urban life and the island’s agricultural communities.
Its rich history and cultural significance have helped establish the Romería de San Benito as one of the Canary Islands’ most emblematic traditional festivals.
Preserving Canarian identity
The continued popularity of the pilgrimage reflects a shared commitment to preserving Tenerife’s customs in a rapidly changing world.
For many participants, the event is far more than a celebration. It is an opportunity to honour previous generations, showcase traditional music, gastronomy and craftsmanship, and pass these customs on to future generations.
The San Benito Romería continues to stand as one of the strongest expressions of Canarian identity, bringing together communities from across the island in a celebration of history, culture and shared heritage.