This Sunday, April 28, the 56th edition of the Pilgrimage of San Marcos Evangelista, a significant event in Tegueste’s festivities, will take place. Over the years, it has become a must-attend for all tradition lovers, making it one of the most crucial popular celebrations in the Canary Islands, alongside the impressive carters’ work, the boats, the Dance of the Flowers, and the people of Tegueste.
The traditional Pilgrimage honouring San Marcos Evangelista will commence at 1:00 p.m., meandering through the streets La Audiencia, El Carmen, Nueva, Prebendado Pacheco, Plaza San Marcos, El Pinar, and La Placeta. The spectacle will feature the Dance of the Flowers, carts, boats, livestock, and folkloric groups from the Canary Islands. This year, 28 carts will participate, including those of Pedro Álvarez, Las Canteras, El Gamonal, and many more.
An hour before the festival starts, at 11:30 a.m., a Solemn Eucharist celebration will occur. Subsequently, the pilgrimage will be kicked off by the sacred San Marcos Evangelista image, placed in front of the Church square to bless the pilgrims, cart drivers, and livestock.
The town’s mayor, Ana Mena, urges everyone to participate and collaborate on this day. She emphasises the importance of respecting and acknowledging the hard work of the carters, boats, and Dance of the Flowers over several months.
It is requested that pilgrims wear traditional costumes to show respect for the traditions, contribute to the festival’s authenticity, and enhance the beauty of the Pilgrimage, one of the Archipelago’s significant celebrations.
Traffic Arrangements
Traffic in the ascending direction (Punta del Hidalgo to La Laguna) will be redirected at kilometer point 10,200, at the El Socorro roundabout, onto the TF-154 El Portezuelo highway, with the TF-13 being closed off from that point onwards.
The redirection will commence at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 28, with traffic towards La Laguna on that road closed until 11:59 p.m. On the other hand, the road will remain open for traffic in the descending direction.
Parking will be prohibited 24 hours a day in specific areas like Plaza de San Marcos and several streets during the Pilgrimage. Streets such as La Audiencia will be closed to traffic until Tuesday for the carts remaining on display for Carter’s Day.
Access to certain streets will be through La Placeta, with parking restrictions on TF-13 road, except at designated areas. Streets in various neighbourhoods will also experience temporary traffic closures.
Titsa Special Services
Tegueste City Council encourages the use of public transport for the smooth running of the festival. Therefore, Titsa will provide additional services on certain routes to facilitate travel on the day of the Pilgrimage.
Special direct services between La Laguna Interchange and Tegueste will be available between 10:00 and 01:30. Additional services on other routes connecting different areas will also be provided.
Purple Point
A “Purple Point” will be set up during the festival, offering assistance and support to women and girls facing any form of aggression. The aim is to raise awareness about gender violence and ensure a safe environment during the festivities.
Reusable Cups
Participants are encouraged to bring their reusable cups for the Pilgrimage or purchase them at the event, as part of the “Bring your glass from home” campaign initiated by the Tegueste City Council.
Security Measures
Security arrangements for the festival will be enhanced this year, with over 250 personnel ensuring safety and order during the Pilgrimage. The security plan includes a coordinated effort from various local enforcement agencies and emergency services.
The deployment will consist of 259 individuals, including officers from Local Police, Canarian Police, Civil Guard, Civil Protection, and the Red Cross. A Municipal Coordination Center (CECOPAL) will be set up at the Los Zamoranos farm.
Monday, April 29, Cartwright’s Day
On Monday, April 29, Cartwright’s Day will be celebrated, showcasing the carts that featured in the Pilgrimage in Honour of San Marcos Evangelista starting from 2:00 p.m.
