If you’re coming to Tenerife for your Erasmus+ experience, get ready to not only immerse yourself in its beautiful landscapes and sunny weather but also in its vibrant cultural celebrations and festivities. From the famous carnivals to the traditional religious parties, we set up a guide for you to get to know all that is going on around here. So, if you’re looking to explore this diverse island and gain an understanding and appreciation for the culture, its rich heritage, and its lively atmosphere, keep on reading!
Carnival de Santa Cruz
Imagine the streets bursting with color, music blasting through the air, and everyone dressed in costumes – welcome to the Carnival of Santa Cruz. Known as one of the biggest carnivals in the world, every February, this event attracts thousands of visitors across the globe and is a must-see experience for any students here around that time. Join in with the parades, take pictures of the decorated platforms, and dance at lively street parties.
Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Experience the important yet captivating Semana Santa in Tenerife, usually in March or April. This week-long religious event is filled with processions, decorated carts, and important rituals. Do you want to witness centuries-old traditions and get a better understanding of the cultural and religious roots of this island? Then make sure to witness one of these events if you are here.
Mueca
For the students passionate about the arts (or even the ones that aren’t), the Mueca festival in Puerto de la Cruz is a must-attend event. Held every year in May, this street art festival transforms the city into an open-air stage. Artists from different nationalities come to showcase their talent whether that is theater, dance, acrobatics, or live music. Mueca has a very dynamic and vivid atmosphere where people can immerse themselves in the creativity, diverse performances, and Tenerife’s lively cultural scene.
Are you here around May? Click here to see the exact dates and program of Mueca!
Romería
Romerías are lively and colorful pilgrimages celebrated across Tenerife, each honoring a different saint. Romerías are a perfect way to experience the island’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. Locals are dressed in traditional Canarian clothes, decorate cats with flowers and produce, and they parade through the street with music, dancing, and food. Join the festivity and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes Romerías a highlight of Tenerife’s cultural calendar.
Baile de Magos
Don’t miss out on the Baile de Magos! This event is a huge part of local festivals and a great way to dive into the island’s traditions. Imagine this: you and your friends dressed in colorful, traditional Canarian clothing, dancing to folk music in a lively town square. It’s a night filled with music, dancing, and new friends. Baile de Magos is the perfect blend of cultural immersion and fun.
Corpus Christi
Want to witness how streets turn into beautiful flower carpets? Then don’t miss the Corpus Christi, celebrated in June. Towns like La Orotava and La Laguna transform the streets into incredible artwork with flower carpets, or “alfrombras”, made from colored sand, flowers, and other natural materials. It’s like walking through a colorful, outdoor art gallery! It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the island’s beauty and culture up close.
San Juan
One of the most magical nights you can experience in Spain is the celebration of San Juan, held on the evening of June 23rd. This night marks the arrival of the summer and it’s all about welcoming the new season with bonfires, music, and beach parties. Locals and tourists gather with friends and family on the beach, surrounded by bonfires, and celebrate the shortest night of the year.
Traditionally, people jump over the bonfires and run into the sea at midnight to cleanse and purify themselves, believing that this ritual brings good luck and washes away all the negativity. The atmosphere during this night is vibrant and festive, with live music, dancing, and fireworks lighting up the sky. San Juan is a unique opportunity to join in a local tradition, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and create unforgettable summer memories.
Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen
Celebrated in July, the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen honors the patron saint of the fishermen. Coastal towns and villages around Tenerife host a maritime procession where a statue of the Virgen is taken out to sea on decorated boats. Witness the unique blend of religious devotions and maritime culture, with music, dancing, and fireworks display along the waterfront.
San Andrés Festival
Mark your calendars for November 29th, because this is something you don’t want to miss! Get ready for San Andrés Festival in Icod de los Vinos, an amazing festival that celebrates the start of the new wine season with a unique and thrilling tradition called “arrastre de las tablas”, where people slide down steep streets on wooden boards – an adrenaline rush you have to see/experience to believe it. Plus, for the students older than 18, there will also be wine tastings and chestnut roasts, creating a perfect blend of excitement and delicious flavors. This is for sure a one-of-a-kind festival you won’t forget!
La Laguna Noche en Blanco
Ready for a unique nightlife experience? Usually held in November, La Laguna celebrates “La Laguna Noche en Blanco”, where La Laguna stays awake to celebrate culture and commerce. Picture streets filled with live music, cool art installations, exciting performances, and shops offering awesome deals that go late into the night. It’s the perfect chance to explore the city, soak up cultural activities, and connect with the local community in a fun, festive atmosphere. Grab your friends and experience a unique night out in La Laguna!
Christmas and New Year’s Celebrations
During the most festive season of the year, Tenerife sparkles with Christmas lights, markets, and seasonal cheer. Even though you’re most likely spending the holidays at home with your family, for the people that do find themselves here during this time, try some of the typical Spanish treats like turron and Roscón de Reyes, attend the midnight Mass, or join the excitement of New Year’s Eve with fireworks and street parties. Despite not being at home, spending your holidays here will for sure be the perfect way to end your year on a high note.
Día de los Reyes Magos
Besides the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, there is an extra celebration on January 5th and 6th. Locally known as Día de los Reyes Magos, or “Three Kings Day”, where locals celebrate the arrival of the Three Wise Men who bought gifts for baby Jesus. On the evening of January 5th, towns and cities across the island host grand parades known as the “Cabalgata de Reyes”. Think of decorated carts with the Three Kings throwing sweets to the crowds, costumes, and music filling the streets.
The following day, January 6th, families gather to exchange gifts and share a special cake called “Roscón de Reyes”, which you should definitely try if you’re here. Whether you’re watching the parade or participating in the local festivities, Día de los Reyes Magos offers a memorable heartwarming experience not only during your time here in Tenerife but also as a great start to the new year.
Conclusion
As you begin your study abroad journey in Tenerife, take advantage of the island’s rich culture and participate in its vibrant holidays and celebrations. Whether you are here for Carnival de Santa Cruz, the Semana Santa processions, or are able to experience a Romería or Baile de Magos, each festivity brings a unique glimpse into Tenerife’s traditions and community spirit. Embrace the festive vibe, make new friends, and create unforgettable memories during your time in this Canarian paradise.
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