The celebrations dedicated to Our Lady of Mercy of Roja, set to take place in El Médano from 13 to 24 September, arrive this year with a fresh outlook. Antonio Polegre, chairman of the new festivities committee, along with 47 local youths, has revamped the traditional organisation, implementing modifications that aim to preserve the town’s heritage while adapting the celebrations to modern times.
As stated by him, the new committee has injected a vitality that “has engaged the entire community.” The motto for this year is about being from El Médano, demonstrating a dedication to identity, which the organisers strive to balance with initiatives like fundraising. In this regard, as highlighted by Antonio Polegre, the quest for backing from businesses has intensified, resulting in various new funding methods that have bolstered support.
The schedule of activities, which this publication has been able to review, comprises traditional rituals, cultural happenings, and exciting surprises. As always, the boat pilgrimage on 22 September will be among the key highlights, preserving the essence of the celebrations with a procession of floats and a solemn mass. This occasion will be complemented by folk performances and street festivities in the town square.
Another of the revitalised traditional events is the Fiesta del Picacho, which will occur on 12 October. What initially started as a modest gathering organised by a fisherman named Colacho, who shared his catch with neighbours, has evolved into an event featuring live music, notably with the participation of the El Golpito group. This festival had been neglected before the pandemic but is scheduled for revival this year.
Among the innovations, the “resacería” stands out as a blend of “the hangover from the pilgrimage and a celebratory day at the beach,” which will include a football match and the screening of a summary video showcasing the events that unfolded.
The Taifa Dance, one of the most anticipated events, will be more exclusive this year, with limited access and a traditional dress code. Moreover, the day dedicated to humour will feature esteemed Canarian comedians, such as Aarón Gómez and Abubukaka, while the Young Night will showcase performances by PtaZeta, Juacko, and Renzo el Selector.
The festival committee has distributed 5,200 programmes. Antonio Polegre expresses gratitude for the support of the 167 collaborating companies, as well as the assistance from Granadilla City Council.
The programme also includes activities tailored for children, such as the event “Los peques se van de marcha” (The Little Ones Go on a March) and a children’s festival, during which the children of the town will present choreographies practiced with teacher Bea Piñero. Additionally, “Memorias de El Médano” will gather local elders to share their stories in a documentary, thereby preserving the collective memory of this community.
Polegre is pleased with the developments thus far: “We want everyone to rest a little, enjoy a great deal, and make these holidays unforgettable,” he remarks enthusiastically.
