Melenara Festivities in Telde in Doubt Due to Works and Fireworks Permits

The celebration, scheduled for August 21, faces obstacles from promenade construction and difficulties in obtaining authorizations for the pyrotechnic show.

Generic image of the Melenara festivities with works on the promenade.
IA

Generic image of the Melenara festivities with works on the promenade.

The Melenara festivities in Telde, scheduled for August 21, are facing uncertainty due to ongoing works on the promenade and challenges in securing permits for the fireworks display.

The El Chinchorro Patronage, alongside the mayor of Telde, Juan Antonio Peña, has unveiled the festival program, which annually draws thousands. However, the celebration is contingent upon the beach area being cleared of construction barriers and materials, which are hindering the setup of traditional beach bars and planned activities. The Patronage's president, Carmen Rosa Santana, has voiced concerns, stating that if spaces are not freed up, the festival could be jeopardized, though the group continues to seek solutions.
Adding to the construction-related issues is the uncertainty surrounding the fireworks display, slated for the night of August 29. According to the president, necessary documentation for permit applications was not submitted within the initial deadline due to a human error, which has stalled the authorization process.
In response, the City Council has stated its aim to maximize the available space for events, reduce the fenced-off areas during the festivities, and remove materials whenever technical and safety conditions permit.
The festival program will commence on Friday, August 21, with a opening speech by María Encarnación 'Lala' Torres Ortega, followed by musical performances. Saturday, August 22, will feature a pilgrimage and a street party, while Sunday, August 23, is the 'Día del Chinchorro' with aquatic activities and the election of the King and Queen. Throughout the week, there will be sports, music, and children's activities, including a mariachi performance for the sick or less mobile, and a day dedicated to seniors.
Saturday, August 29, is designated as the 'Night of the Fireworks,' with a street party starting at 10:00 PM and the pyrotechnic show planned around midnight, pending authorizations. Musical acts will follow. The festivities will conclude on Sunday, August 30, with the traditional land and sea procession, trophy awards, and a closing gala.