The enrollment period for participation with a cart, carriage, and revelry in the annual pilgrimage honouring the patron saints, San Isidro Labrador and Santa María de la Cabeza, in La Orotava, opens this Monday. This year marks the eighty-seventh edition of the traditional pilgrimage, which is considered one of the most significant events in the Canary Islands. The cultural society has been organising this pilgrimage since June 21, 1936, with breaks in 2020 and 2021 due to the global pandemic.
The registration deadline is set for May 10. During the initial week, registration will be limited to carts and carriages owned by residents of the village, with rentals allowed subsequently. Registration must be done in person at the Liceo de Taoro society’s office from Monday to Friday, between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., and on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Alternatively, registration can be completed via email at [email protected] by submitting all required documentation and proof of payment of 35 euros plus IGIC.
Each owned cart and carriage will receive a permanent registration number, which must be visibly displayed on the vehicle. A qualified technician will be responsible for inspecting and ensuring their condition, with all entries to be monitored a week before the pilgrimage.
The maximum participation limit will be determined based on the available spaces for each edition, expected to be around 70, similar to the previous year. Departure order will be determined by draw, scheduled for May 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the Liceo de Taoro assembly hall.
Carts carrying groups must register collectively, detailing the group’s type, composition, and decorating them with natural elements and light, elegant decor to participate in the decoration contest. Winners stand a chance to win prizes of 200 euros and select their starting position in the 2025 edition, aiming to preserve traditions.
Folk groups intending to participate must register indicating their group type, Canary Islands association registration number, and composition. They can voluntarily select a starting number among the first 29, respecting groups with specific preferences.
Group leaders and cart owners are responsible for ensuring adherence to traditions, participants’ attire, and enforcing the rules set by the organisers, such as full traditional costumes and avoiding sportswear, watches, sunglasses, or any items not in line with tradition.
