Several thousand people gathered this Sunday along the coast of Punta de Hidalgo to accompany the Virgin of Carmen in her traditional maritime and land procession for the departure of the image. This celebration, which has a long history in the municipality, is closely linked to fishing activities and the nearby coastal communities.
Both the local residents and visitors passionately experienced this festive day, in which the mayor of the municipality, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, participated alongside the councillor for Festivities, Dailos González, and other representatives of the local Corporation.
Gutiérrez highlighted “the magnificent atmosphere and the splendor of this celebration, which once again saw a great involvement from the residents of Punta de Hidalgo and, especially, from the representatives of the Festivities Committee, without whom it would be impossible to carry out such symbolic events for the community.”
Symbolic Event
“This embarkation undoubtedly represents one of the most symbolic events in the Lagunero festivities calendar, and this has been made possible by the work and efforts of so many generations who have passed on the torch to reach our time,” noted Dailos González.
The day’s agenda began at the Olga Ramos square, where a customary religious ceremony took place, paying tribute to all those who have lost their lives at sea, particularly those who dedicate their work to fishing. Following this, the image was lowered to the dock.
At this moment, the sentiment and emotion took centre stage thanks to the soloist Miriam Reyes, who took on the role of performing the piece Ave María in place of Chago Melián after 40 years. This deeply felt musical piece served as a prelude to the departure of the many boats that accompanied the Virgin of Carmen on her maritime journey along the coast of La Laguna.
Upon their return, a large number of people were waiting at Punta del Hidalgo to witness the return of the image to its chapel, the subsequent fireworks display, and the cultural closing of the day, which featured the singer José Félix and his emotive ‘Fado Marino’.
