Traditional Festivities in Tenerife: A Living Heritage

Cécile Barrès
May 9
3 min read

Tenerife is not only about landscapes and beaches — it is also a land of celebrations and living traditions. Throughout the year, the island vibrates to the rhythm of religious festivals, romerías, and carnivals, where popular fervor and joy go hand in hand.

✝️ Patron Saint Festivals, Processions…and Flower Carpets

Almost every town or village celebrates its patron saint with religious festivities that include masses, processions, and lively public gatherings. It's a time when streets are decorated, religious statues are taken out of the churches, and families gather for shared meals.

Some of the most famous celebrations include:

San Marcos in Icod de los Vinos (April), featuring bonfires and the traditional (and controversial) bull-on-a-rope event.
San Roque in Garachico (August 16), a beloved and highly popular event tied to the village's identity.
San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers, celebrated in May or June in many rural areas.
And Corpus Christi in La Orotava (June): the streets of the historic center are covered with magnificent carpets made of flowers and volcanic sands, true ephemeral works of art, carefully crafted by the residents with devotion and pride.

Romerías: Pilgrimages in celebration mode

These festive processions are among the most picturesque traditions on the island. Participants dress in traditional Canarian costumes, walk or ride on decorated carts pulled by oxen, and offer local products to the saints — all to the sound of music and folk dances.

One of the most famous is the Romería de San Benito Abad in La Laguna (July), but many villages have their own, each with its unique charm.

🌸 Other popular festivals: nature, fire and sea

Dia de la Cruz (3 May): the flowery crosses adorn the streets, especially in Los Realejos, La Orotava (and even in my street!) and in cities whose names are linked to the cross, such as Santa Cruz, Puerto de la Cruz... with dances and shows.
• La Noche de San Juan (June 24): fires are lit on the beaches to celebrate the arrival of summer. We jump over the flames or bathe at midnight to bring good luck!
• La Virgen del Carmen (around 16 July): in the coastal villages, the patron saint of sailors is carried in procession to the sea and then boarded a boat for an emotional crossing. Very lively in Puerto de la Cruz, Los Cristianos or Garachico.

🎄 Christmas and the Magic of the Three Kings

December brings a more intimate festive atmosphere, with nativity scenes (some of them life-sized!), lights in the villages, and concerts.

But it’s on January 5, during the Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Parade), that the magic truly comes alive: the Wise Men arrive on camels or in floats, distributing sweets to the children and creating a magical moment for all generations.

🎭 Carnival: Joy in every street

Tenerife's carnival is world-famous, especially in Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz, where parades, elaborate costumes, music, and dancing take over the streets for several days in February or March.

I’ll dedicate a full post to it soon — but just know that carnival is a deeply rooted tradition here, both joyful and symbolic.

These holidays are opportunities to discover a lively and warm local culture, where traditions mingle with the joy of living. And even if you are just passing through, you are often welcomed as a family guest!