The traditional Romería de La Orotava, honoring San Isidro Labrador and Santa María de la Cabeza, takes place this Sunday, June 14th, bringing together thousands of people and numerous decorated carts. This event stands as one of the most important folkloric celebrations in the Canary Islands, boasting international recognition and a substantial security and transportation deployment for attendees.
Religious activities commenced at 11:30 AM with a solemn mass at the Iglesia de la Concepción, accompanied by the folk group Higa performing traditional Canarian songs. During the ceremony, devotees presented offerings of agricultural produce. The event was broadcast live by local television and the Ayuntamiento's social media channels. Following the mass, a procession carried the religious images to the Casa de los Balcones.
The romería officially began at 1:30 PM from the San Francisco area. Leading the procession was the mayor, Francisco Linares, alongside the Romera Mayor and insular authorities. The traditional route wound through the main streets to the Plaza de la Paz, featuring the confirmed participation of 77 carts and 30 musical groups. The patron saints concluded the parade after the last cart passed, with an estimated attendance exceeding 25,000 people.
The route concluded at El Calvario with the customary salute to the saints, followed by the continuation of the celebration with a grand romería dance. The Plaza Franchy Alfaro hosted performances by orchestras Primera Marcha and Swing Latino, while the Plaza del Ayuntamiento featured music by DJ Renzzo El Selector.
Organizers reminded participants of the mandatory traditional attire for the procession, emphasizing respect for Canarian cultural values. The use of sports footwear, sunglasses, or modern watches was prohibited during the parade. Concurrently, the Sociedad Liceo Taoro organized the ninth competition for carts, wagons, and folk groups, evaluating originality, artistic merit, and decoration based on the island's crafts and traditional customs.
To facilitate access and prevent parking issues, the Cabildo de Tenerife activated a special public transport service starting at 9:00 AM. Transportes Interurbanos de Tenerife (Titsa) reinforced bus lines, adding specific services on line 101 (La Laguna-La Orotava), hourly extra trips on line 351 (Puerto de la Cruz-La Orotava Station), and additional departures on line 353 (circular route through Los Realejos).
