Summer is a time filled with celebrations in The Islands, offering moments of joy for both residents and tourists. A town in Tenerife, which was affected by a devastating fire last year in the north of the island, has prepared a special daytime event this year as part of the August festivities, along with a variety of other festive activities.
The mayor of The Victory of Acentejo, Juan Antonio García Abreu, and the Festival Councillor, Yurena Gutiérrez, have announced the lineup of events for the grand August celebrations that commence on Friday, 16th. One highly anticipated new addition this year is the “Night of wines with DO,” an event aimed at fulfilling the locals’ desire to showcase and enjoy the wines produced in the municipality, alongside the traditional festivities. This event will follow the official inauguration of the festivities.
Over twelve vibrant days, various events suitable for all ages will be held at three primary venues: El Pinar Park, Plaza Rodríguez Lara, and the esplanade near the Town Hall. According to the mayor, “These celebrations are particularly special as last year’s tragic fire abruptly halted the excitement and plans of many of our residents. We had to cancel all events just hours before their commencement. This year of absence has allowed us to prepare an even more comprehensive programme with renewed enthusiasm.”
One of the most touching events will be a tribute to all those who played a role, either voluntarily or professionally, in extinguishing the severe forest fire that affected the island and, specifically, the municipality of La Victoria de Acentejo.
This tribute will take place on Thursday, 22nd August at Plaza Rodríguez Lara starting from 9:30 p.m. Festival Councillor Yurena Gutiérrez stated, “We aim to honour the past events, express our gratitude to the community for their support, acknowledge the neighbours who assisted the affected individuals, and appreciate the tremendous efforts of the firefighting professionals.”
However, the event that has garnered significant anticipation and interest is the “Gran Verbenazo,” a new addition focused on attracting attendees of all ages, including families with children. The festivities will commence around noon and continue until 10 pm, featuring performances by orchestras, DJs, as well as special appearances by Las Kanarias and Tony Tun Tun to conclude the event on a high note. The Festival Councillor highlighted that the El Pinar Park venue will have restricted and monitored capacity to ensure the safety of all participants.
The event schedule presentation was attended by all candidates for various galas, including the current Queen, Mister, and Romera Mayor elected in 2022. The gala for the Queen and Mister’s election and coronation will be held on Saturday, 17th August, featuring the participation of 16 young men and women. The Romera Mayor election is scheduled for Friday, 23rd August.
Throughout these 16 days, a lineup of over 40 events has been organised, encompassing sports, recreation, culture, and religious activities. Of note is the traditional pilgrimage in honour of San Isidro Labrador, celebrating its 43rd edition this year, with the participation of ten floats and numerous carts annually. For this year’s procession on Saturday, 24th August, individuals keen on joining with their own float must register in advance to manage the pilgrimage’s capacity.
As customary in La Victoria de Acentejo festivities, the not-to-be-missed concert by the Añate Folk Group, commemorating its 41st anniversary with the show “Ñ. Derecho/ Evolución,” is scheduled for Wednesday, 21st August. Additionally, the much-awaited “La Noche Atrevida” is set for Tuesday, 27th August. The festivities will conclude with a day filled with activities starting at 5 pm, featuring an Automobile Jinkana, a children’s theatre performance titled “El Relojero de los Sueños,” stand-up comedy by Kike Pérez, and ending with the traditional Paseo y Quema del Haragán.
The mayor emphasised that these celebrations have been meticulously planned with tremendous enthusiasm and care, “bearing in mind that our town suffered a significant blow last year due to the devastating fire. Therefore, we invite everyone to partake in and enjoy the events we have diligently prepared,” stressed Abreu.
