Yesterday, Santa Cruz de Tenerife was once again adorned with crosses and flowers to commemorate the 530th anniversary of its foundation, during the grand celebrations of its May Festival. Thousands of individuals took advantage of this festive occasion to roam the streets and admire the 35 crosses crafted by schools using recycled materials along the capital’s promenade. Additionally, 12 crosses made with flowers and natural elements by both public and private institutions were displayed in the Paseo de las Tinajas. These creations were complemented by 14 crosses decorated by various groups and neighbourhood associations in local districts.
The Mayor of Santa Cruz, José Manuel Bermúdez, the First Deputy Mayor, Carlos Tarife, and the Councillor for Festivities, Javier Caraballero, along with several members of the council and representatives from other institutions, strolled through the floral displays on the Rambla de Santa Cruz. They were accompanied by the May Festival Queen and a children’s Magician. “The city is celebrating its 530th anniversary joyfully, showcasing crosses across our neighbourhoods and the promenade, which look extraordinary,” Bermúdez remarked.
The commencement of this traditional institutional walk coincided with the presence of activists carrying a yellow cross with the message “made by the people: we want the Canary Islands free of cement”, reciting chants amidst the sound of traditional Canarian instruments, with the resounding slogan “Canary Islands not for sale”, frequently heard during the 20A protests.
Taking a stroll with family members to visit the crosses on the Rambla is a custom upheld each May 3rd, the significant day of the Festival. Despite this year’s holiday coinciding with the start of a long weekend on a Friday, the promenade was already bustling with visitors by mid-morning, as individuals relished the vibrant atmosphere, admired the innovative school crosses, and revelled in the beauty of the floral arrangements, capturing countless photos and selfies with their mobile phones. The pleasant weather on this day was delightful, with mild temperatures, unlike the scorching heat experienced in previous years.
Throughout the promenade, a diverse crowd was observed, from elderly individuals to families with young children, all keeping the tradition alive for future generations, particularly enjoying the school crosses that grow more colourful and imaginative with each passing year. These crosses ranged from designs with balls or robots to themes encompassing inclusion, space, the sea, music, and tales, among others. One cross, in particular, caught the attention of passers-by with its intricate depiction of traditional Canarian houses, prompting onlookers to gather around and admire its craftsmanship. “How impressive,” “so beautiful,” were among the comments heard from those gathered.
Tourists also joined the festivities, approaching the crosses with curiosity to capture them on their mobile devices or indulge in the gastronomic delights and crafts showcased along the pathways of García Sanabria Park, as part of the XLVII Regional Exhibition of Flowers, Plants, and Crafts. The park was teeming with visitors exploring the 78 flower and plant stalls, culinary offerings, handicrafts, musical performances, and children’s activities like the iconic Gorgorito by “Maese Villarejo”, and the Book Fair.
