On Sunday, September 1, Porís de Abona provided an ideal backdrop for an occasion that will linger in the minds of all participants: the Habaneras Festival. This event, which showcased talented groups such as the Coral de Cámara Las Hiedras, Unión Artística El Cabo, Habana Vieja, and Dulce Caña de La Habana, proved to be a tremendous success. With significant public attendance, the festival shone bright with its lively atmosphere and high musical quality, allowing each performance to echo the spirit of the habaneras—a musical style originating from Cuba in the 19th century and embraced by various ensembles like choirs, bands, tunas, and rondallas.
This festival not only honourably recognised the cultural richness of our heritage but also provided a heartfelt conclusion to summer. Local inhabitants relished an afternoon filled with nostalgic melodies, the sea serving as a splendid backdrop. This initiative, a collaboration between the Department of Culture and the Department of Festivals within the Arico City Council, reaffirmed a commitment to offering a diverse and inclusive cultural programme for everyone.
Magicians’ Ball
In a similar spirit, the area has devised an extensive programme for its patron saint festivities. Both the Habaneras Festival and the forthcoming Baile de Magos form part of the celebrations in honour of Our Lady of Abona. This second musical gathering is scheduled for 6 September at 8:00 p.m. in La Villa de Arico.
This occasion represents a unique chance to enjoy an unforgettable evening, where our culture and traditions unite to create lasting memories. Participants will include:
The San Juan Walk Folklore Group
Los Aceviños Folklore Group
Altos de Arico School of Music and Folklore
Las Hiedras Cultural Association
The Chasnera Parranda
This Saturday, Benítez Street in Lugo will be adorned in traditional Canarian attire, resonating with the most distinct sounds of our Canarian folklore to fully immerse ourselves in the traditions.
The Mayor of Arico, Olivia Delgado, remarked, “The Habaneras Festival was a genuine celebration of our cultural wealth and a resounding triumph that will remain etched in the memory of all of us fortunate enough to attend.” “I wish to extend my gratitude to all individuals involved in organising the event and to the residents who participated with such enthusiasm. This is why we aim to continue supporting events of this nature, and we anticipate a warm reception for the magicians’ dance,” stated the mayor.
The Councillor for Culture, Agustín Tejera, shared his pleasure regarding the successful execution of “an event that has brought neighbours together through music and our cultural roots.” “This festival exemplifies the Arico Town Council’s commitment to delivering a quality and varied cultural programme, setting the standard for future activities. We are not stopping here; we look forward to the Baile de Magos as yet another opportunity to continue sharing and celebrating our traditions in a familial and festive ambience,” concluded the councillor.
On her part, the Councillor for Festivals, Ariam Álvarez, affirmed that “there are no festivals without culture, thus the synergies established and nurtured between both councils enable us to provide our residents with a quality programme during these festivities.” “After the notable success of the Habaneras Festival, we are now, with great enthusiasm, inviting everyone to partake in the Baile de Magos, one of the final events to cap off our patron saint celebrations,” Álvarez encouraged.
