The Comarca Nordeste is gearing up to celebrate one of the longest-standing and most beloved pilgrimages on the islands’ calendar. Next Sunday, May 19, the village of Valle de Guerra will host the 75th edition of its pilgrimage in honour of San Isidro Labrador and Santa Maria de la Cabeza. This event will feature around thirty wagons, carts, numerous folk groups, both organized and impromptu parrandas, as well as traditional dances.
The mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, underscores the significance of the Valle de Guerra pilgrimage due to its rich history and deep-rooted traditions among the locals. He highlights the unique character and idiosyncrasy of the people of Valle de Guerra, noting their steadfast commitment to customs and agricultural and livestock traditions, which are faithfully represented in this distinctive pilgrimage, now celebrating its 75th edition.
The Councillor for Festivities, Dailos González, expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Festivities Committee and all those involved in making the celebration possible. He detailed that “the pilgrimage will begin at 13:00, following the mass at the church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario at 12:00 noon. The pilgrimage will set off from the church, proceeding along the main road on its traditional route towards the area known as the bridge, and then returning to the Valle de Guerra square.”
Historical Background of Valle de Guerra Celebration
According to Derimán Alonso, former president of the Festivities Commission and a key figure in the celebrations in Valle de Guerra, the origins of this celebration date back to the 18th century. During that time, the inhabitants of Valle de Guerra took to the streets to celebrate the feast of San Isidro, featuring religious ceremonies, livestock blessings, and processions around the church square. It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the festivities began to resemble the modern-day celebration, incorporating livestock and carts decorated with motifs related to local agriculture and flowers.
This year’s pilgrimage promises to be a vibrant display of Valle de Guerra’s enduring traditions and communal spirit, reflecting centuries of cultural heritage and devotion.
