Gran Canaria hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich culture, traditions, and vibrant atmosphere.
Here is an Events guide to actual fiestas and public celebrations taking place for the rest of 2023
July
The 16th of July is Fiesta del Carmen.
This feast is very significant throughout the entire chain of the Canary Islands because the Virgen del Carmen is the patron saint of fishermen. This is particularly true at Puerto Mogán, Las Palmas, Arguinegun, and Barrio de la Isleta, where the celebration can last up to a week and sculptures of the Virgin are carried out to sea in procession of decked boats.
August
August 4th, Bajada de la Rama (Bringing Down the Branches)
One of the oldest fiestas on the island, this vibrant celebration takes place in Agaete and has its origins in the rain dance of the Guanches. Nowadays, locals travel from Agaete down to a chapel honoring the Virgen de Las Nieves carrying pine branches. In the past, the native people would beat the seas with branches to stir up rain.
September
September 8 is Fiesta de la Virgen del Pino.
Numerous pilgrims from all over the island travel to Teror to honor the saint at the annual Fiesta de la Virgen del Pino (Feast of Our Lady of the Pines). This feast, which typically lasts for a week, is not only the biggest occasion in the area but also the most significant religious festival on the island’s calendar.
September 11th is Fiesta del Charco (Festival of the Lagoon).
This fiesta’s ancestors can be traced to an indigenous time period. It takes place in Puerto de la Aldea, a San Nicolás de Tolentino municipality. Villagers participate in customary rites such as wading in the lagoon while completely clothed, attempting to catch fish with their bare hands, and dousing one another with water.
October
October’s Fiestas de la Naval (Sea Festival) is held on the second Saturday of the month.
Maritime processions celebrate the Spanish Armada’s 1595 victory over the British explorer Sir Francis Drake in Las Palmas and other ports.
December
Santa Lucia Day is on December 13.
The main location for this winter event, which combines Swedish and Canarian customs, is Santa Luca de Tirajana in the southwest of the island.
25 December: Navidad
The nativities play a significant role in Gran Canaria’s Christmas customs, which include numerous to enjoy and learn about. The staging for a well-liked nativity play is set in the community of Veneguera, which is close to Mogán. Sand sculptures depicting the Nativity are part of a completely distinct tradition that Playa de las Canteras also organizes. The results, which feature numerous invited international artists, are simply amazing.
December 31st marks Nochevieja celebrations.
The festivities for the New Year (Nochevieja) typically begin with supper at a restaurant (make reservations in advance, since this is a major night) and lots of entertainment, music, and dancing. Get your fortunate grapes, please! If you eat 12 grapes at midnight, one for each tick of the clock, it is thought that you will be lucky the next year.
Here’s a guide to some of the notable events that take place in Gran Canaria every year:
Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:
One of the most anticipated events on the island, the Carnival of Las Palmas is a spectacular celebration held in February. It features colorful parades, music, dancing, and extravagant costumes. The highlight is the election of the Carnival Queen.
Maspalomas Gay Pride:
Held in Maspalomas in May, the Maspalomas Gay Pride is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Europe. It includes a vibrant parade, live performances, parties, and cultural events, attracting visitors from all over the world.
WOMAD Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:
This world music festival takes place in November in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. It features performances by international artists, showcasing a diverse range of music genres and promoting cultural exchange.
Fiesta de San Juan:
Celebrated on the night of June 23rd, the Fiesta de San Juan marks the arrival of summer. People gather on the beaches to light bonfires, enjoy fireworks, and participate in rituals such as jumping over the fire for good luck.
Fiestas del Carmen:
In July, various coastal towns in Gran Canaria celebrate the Fiestas del Carmen, honoring the patron saint of fishermen. Festivities include boat processions, live music, dancing, and traditional Canarian food.
Fiesta de la Rama:
Held in Agaete in August, the Fiesta de la Rama is a unique celebration involving a parade where participants carry branches and leaves, singing and dancing to the sound of traditional music. It is believed to bring good luck and abundant harvest.
International Jazz Festival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy this renowned festival, held in July, which brings together internationally acclaimed jazz musicians for concerts, workshops, and jam sessions.
Canary Islands Music Festival:
The Canary Islands Music Festival is a prestigious event held from January to March, featuring classical music concerts in various locations across Gran Canaria. Renowned orchestras, soloists, and conductors perform in this festival.
Christmas and New Year’s Celebrations:
During the holiday season, Gran Canaria lights up with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and lively street performances. Fireworks and street parties welcome the New Year, particularly in popular areas like Las Canteras Beach.
These events provide a glimpse into the vibrant cultural scene of Gran Canaria and offer opportunities to celebrate with the locals, experience traditional customs, and enjoy world-class performances. It’s advisable to check the exact dates and details of each event closer to your visit, as they may vary from year to year.