With plenty of upcoming festivals throughout the Canary Islands to choose from, there's a selection of activities for all types of travellers to do when you're not on the beach. We've rounded up the top events to attend for some of the most spectacular displays throughout the year.
Every year in September a procession is held in honour of the Virgen de la Pea, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. This important party, the Fiesta Vega de Rio Palmas, attracts people from across the globe, who descend en-masse on the church of Vega de Rio Palmas bearing candles. Many arrive on foot, following the road between the Costa Antigua and Triqui to arrive just in time for a midnight fireworks display - one of the most magical on the whole island. The date of the festival varies from year to year, so be sure to check in advance so as not to miss out.
Each year the dates may vary slightly, but visit the Canaries during January to March to hit carnival season. The Las Palmas celebrations are among the most hedonistic, lasting from three weeks to a month. Events include the election of the carnival queen, the children's carnival and a huge open-air party with live performances at Santa Catalina Park. Fireworks displays are regularly staged during this time.
Carnival season in the Canaries ends with the Burial of the Sardine, which typically coincides with Ash Wednesday. In most places in Spain the sardine is buried, however in Fuerteventura the sardine is dramatically set on fire. First it's paraded through the city streets, before being set alight on the beach of Carralejo, by the old town harbour.
The burning is accompanied by a huge (and very loud) fireworks display. The Burial of the Sardine is heavy in symbolism and is believed to represent the rebirth and transformation of society. It dates back hundreds of years and has been painted by many artists, including Fransisco de Goya.
Every year in September a procession is held in honour of the Virgen de la Pea, the patron saint of the Canary Islands. This important party, the Fiesta Vega de Rio Palmas, attracts people from across the globe, who descend en-masse on the church of Vega de Rio Palmas bearing candles. Many arrive on foot, following the road between the Costa Antigua and Triqui to arrive just in time for a midnight fireworks display - one of the most magical on the whole island. The date of the festival varies from year to year, so be sure to check in advance so as not to miss out.
Each year the dates may vary slightly, but visit the Canaries during January to March to hit carnival season. The Las Palmas celebrations are among the most hedonistic, lasting from three weeks to a month. Events include the election of the carnival queen, the children's carnival and a huge open-air party with live performances at Santa Catalina Park. Fireworks displays are regularly staged during this time.
Carnival season in the Canaries ends with the Burial of the Sardine, which typically coincides with Ash Wednesday. In most places in Spain the sardine is buried, however in Fuerteventura the sardine is dramatically set on fire. First it's paraded through the city streets, before being set alight on the beach of Carralejo, by the old town harbour.
The burning is accompanied by a huge (and very loud) fireworks display. The Burial of the Sardine is heavy in symbolism and is believed to represent the rebirth and transformation of society. It dates back hundreds of years and has been painted by many artists, including Fransisco de Goya.
About the Author:
Catherine McCulloch is a travel writer who often goes on Fuerteventura holidays. Click here to snap up excellent savings on places to stay and flights to the Canaries.
