La Laguna is gearing up to host the next November 23 event of The White Night, a day dedicated to showcasing culture, art, heritage, commerce, and entertainment as a special homage to the city and its residents, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of its designation as a World Heritage City.
The event will run from 11:00 a.m. until the early hours of the morning and will feature a diverse range of programming suitable for all ages, including international shows, family-friendly activities, sporting proposals, and an extensive gastronomic and commercial array.
The activity schedule will enliven the streets of the historic centre and, for the first time in this edition, its surrounding areas as well. There will be up to 100 activities, distributed across 30 locations, both outdoors and indoors.
Last year, the event attracted around 120,000 visitors throughout the day, and this year’s edition is anticipated to match or perhaps surpass this number.
The White Night not only marks the commencement of the Christmas shopping season, but the day itself represents roughly 10% of total sales for that entire campaign.
Slogans, promotions, and local markets
This year, one of the notable innovations will be the introduction of slogans in various parts of the historic centre, allowing attendees to securely store their purchases and continue enjoying the day’s festivities without concern.
Moreover, local businesses have prepared exclusive offers and promotions for the occasion, further enhancing the festive spirit and attracting customers in search of unique, authentic, and quality goods.
The commercial options will also include ‘markets’ showcasing local brands at Camino Largo and Parque de la Constitución, providing businesses the opportunity to display their products in a prime setting.
International shows with a touch of Paris
The cultural programme for La Noche en Blanco 2024 boasts a considerable international presence, featuring the renowned French company Transe Express presenting their show ‘Cristal Palace’. This performance has travelled through numerous cities worldwide, transforming the streets of La Laguna into a realm of fantasy and opulence, reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles, complete with a grand chandelier suspended in the air, beneath which dancers and musicians will deliver a performance in quintessential Parisian style.
The Remue-Ménage company will also arrive from Paris, showcasing their parades ‘Los Minúsculos’ and ‘El Vuelo’, which will infuse the historic centre with colour and enchantment, turning the city into an arena of beauty and refinement. A stunning performance that will immerse the audience in the grand ambience of the French capital.
Additionally, theatrical companies from Valencia, such as La Finestra Nou Circ and Tiritirantes, will partake in the programming, contributing their artistic flair and creativity through street theatre performances designed for audiences of all ages.
Music will take centre stage with concerts featuring Zenet, Tanxungueiras, and La Pegatina, energising La Laguna with vibrant rhythms.
Intergenerational engagement
This edition has established spaces for intergenerational engagement, ensuring that every family member can discover something special to enjoy together. From illustration workshops in the Plaza de los Ilustradores to the ‘City of Stories’ at the IES Canarias Cabrera Pinto, the family-focused offerings will allow children, teens, and adults to immerse themselves in realms of creativity and learning.
As visitors stroll through the streets of La Laguna, they will encounter a variety of activities ranging from theatre to music, as well as participatory spaces. Heraclio Sánchez Street will feature a showcase of workshops conducted at the city’s community centres, offering over 200 activities for attendees to enjoy throughout the day, including self-makeup sessions, embroidery, painting, yoga, and various styles of dance, creating an environment where residents take the spotlight and everyone can find something that captivates and inspires them.
Sports and adventure featuring a giant zip line
The White Night will also diversify with sporting activities to engage a broad audience and encourage an active and healthy lifestyle. A 35-metre zip line and a climbing wall will be set up on Nava and Grimón and San Agustín streets, affording young people and adults the chance to partake in adventurous activities within the historic centre.
Additionally, ping pong tournaments, free throw contests, skateboarding showcases, and open Zumba classes will be organised, among other enjoyable and healthy options.
Chocolateland
Culinary delights will be another top draw of the event, which will feature a special area called ‘Chocoland’ in Plaza Antonio Mederos Sosa, designed for those with a penchant for sweets. This area will invite attendees to savour a selection of chocolates and treats, perfect for a sweet respite amidst the day’s excitement.
Furthermore, the bars and restaurants in the historic centre will present special menus and dishes, offering a wide variety that ranges from the most traditional Canarian cuisine to international fare.
Increased parking and enhanced public transport
Two Violet Points will be established in high-traffic areas to ensure a safe White Night experience, alongside an Orange Point to guarantee accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
To ensure the event unfolds in a safe, clean, and accessible environment, the City Council will implement a comprehensive security and cleaning plan, in collaboration with the Citizen Security and Municipal Services departments.
In addition, the Mobility department will provide extra parking facilities, bolster bus lines, and enhance tram services, facilitating access for those travelling from other regions while implementing measures to avoid overcrowding and ensure a smooth experience for all.
