This Sunday, June 16th, La Orotava will host its 87th annual pilgrimage, renowned as “the most beautiful in the Canary Islands,” a sentiment echoed by the local copla and the Town Hall itself. The festivities will begin at 13:30, following the traditional route from San Francisco to Plaza de la Paz, featuring seventy-five carts and thirty musical groups accompanying the revered figures of San Isidro Labrador and Santa María de La Cabeza to El Calvario for the venia ceremony.
Post-Pilgrimage Celebrations
The revelry will continue post-pilgrimage with lively entertainment in Plaza Franchi Alfaro, featuring performances by Dorada Band and LD, and ambient tunes spun by DJ Renzzo El Selector in Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Recognized as a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest since 1980, this year’s event is expected to draw over 25,000 attendees, especially significant since San Isidro Labrador was recently designated as the Patron Saint by the Vatican.
Transportation to La Orotava
Transportes Interurbanos de Tenerife (Titsa) will enhance bus services to accommodate the influx of pilgrims, promoting buses as a safe, comfortable, and efficient travel option to the northern town. Enhanced service will include additional departures for lines 101, 108, 346, and 353 starting at 09:00. Line 351 will also offer extended services throughout the day from Puerto de la Cruz, with trips scheduled every hour starting from 9:25 until 21:25.
La Orotava Ball of Magos
The traditional Ball of Magos will kick off tonight at 21:00 in Plaza del V Centenario, featuring a dinner for groups and musical bands. Attendees are encouraged to wear traditional costumes. The Taifa dance will start at 22:00. Post-midnight, the celebration continues with DJ Mingo Show and several orchestras scattered around key locations, providing music until late.
Dinner-Dance and Traditional Fireworks
At 21:30, a special dinner-dance will be held at Sociedad Cultural Liceo de Taoro, featuring Orquesta Wamampy and DJ Luis de León. The festivities will extend into Saturday with adjusted Titsa bus schedules to better serve the increased demand. The traditional “Subida de los Santos” will take place Saturday afternoon, starting from the hermitage of El Calvario to La Concepción, highlighted by a spectacular fireworks display from the Town Hall square.
This weekend promises a rich tapestry of cultural events, music, and community spirit in La Orotava, celebrating a deep-rooted tradition that continues to captivate and charm both locals and visitors alike.
