Summer fiesta season in Tenerife is in full swing, and La Esperanza, in the municipality of El Rosario, is marking a very special milestone this year.
The Fiestas in honour of Nuestra Señora de La Esperanza return with a month-long programme of celebrations running from 15th July to 15th August, but the biggest occasion will be the 50th anniversary of the Romería de La Esperanza, one of the most important traditional pilgrimages in the Canary Islands.
If you enjoy authentic Canarian fiestas, this is one to put in the diary.
A special year for one of Tenerife’s best-known romerías
The highlight of the celebrations will be the 50th Romería de La Esperanza, taking place on Sunday 2nd August.
Over the years, it has become one of the island’s most popular traditional events, attracting thousands of people who come to enjoy decorated carts, folk music, traditional dress and plenty of Canarian food and wine.
This year’s anniversary is expected to make the occasion even more memorable.
La Gomera takes centre stage
As well as celebrating its own traditions, this year’s fiestas will pay tribute to the neighbouring island of La Gomera.
Throughout the programme, visitors can expect to see exhibitions, crafts and cultural activities highlighting the island’s heritage and customs.
It’s a nice touch that adds something different to this year’s festivities.
A month of celebrations
The programme gets underway with the opening of the exhibition “Artesanía de La Gomera: Tradición e Identidad”, celebrating the craftsmanship and culture of La Gomera.
The opening day also includes the presentation of the candidates for Romera Senior, Romera Mayor and Romero Mayor, together with the unveiling of the official poster for this year’s romería, created by local artist Elia Estévez.
From there, the celebrations continue throughout the month with a packed programme of music, cultural events, sporting activities and entertainment for all ages.
One of Tenerife’s summer highlights
La Esperanza has long been known for hosting one of the island’s best-loved traditional fiestas, and reaching the 50th anniversary of its romería makes this year’s event even more significant.
If you’re looking to experience a genuine Canarian celebration away from the main tourist resorts, this is exactly the sort of event that’s worth visiting.
Good music, local traditions, community spirit and plenty of reasons to spend a day in the hills above Santa Cruz…that’s not a bad way to enjoy summer in Tenerife.