The City Council of Puerto de la Cruz, through the Department of Youth, has reported a very positive assessment of the first edition of Puerto Joven 2026, held last Saturday, November 7, in the outdoor areas of the Casa de la Aduana. The event saw significant public participation, with attendees enjoying a wide program of activities aimed at young people in an atmosphere of coexistence, fun, and engagement.
The mayor of Puerto de la Cruz, Leopoldo Afonso, emphasized the importance of providing spaces for youth to «meet, express themselves, develop their creativity, and participate in the city's life». He stressed that «youth are not just the future of Puerto de la Cruz; they are an essential part of its present, its identity, and its capacity to continue growing as a society».
The Councilor for Youth, Claudia Hernández, expressed her satisfaction with the event's development, highlighting the public's response and the positive atmosphere throughout the day. «I am very happy with this first edition of Puerto Joven», she stated, emphasizing that «our young people were able to participate and have fun in a safe environment» and that «when we offer spaces and activities designed for youth, young people respond».
During the event, offerings included virtual reality experiences, video games, escape rooms, board games, sustainability and equality workshops, live graffiti, talks, musical performances, and a rap battle, culminating with a musical set by DJ Tay de León. Information, participation, and awareness spaces were also available, along with a Purple Point and an Orange Point, reinforcing the commitment to accessible, inclusive, and safe activities.
Surveys conducted during the event reflect a very positive assessment: out of 21 respondents, 20 rated the day as good or very good (95.2%), and another 20 expressed interest in Puerto Joven being held again, serving as an encouragement for future editions.
Councilor Claudia Hernández thanked all the individuals, associations, entities, educational centers, artists, and professionals who made the event possible, as well as the young attendees, «because without them, Puerto Joven would not exist. They are the true protagonists of this initiative».
