Today, our graphic support brings us a famous traditional gathering, featuring some of the finest folk artists of La Laguna, accompanied by strings, plucked notes, and voices. From left to right: 1.- ?, 2.- Joséito Menina, 3.- Vicente el Zurdo, 4.- Dacio Ferrera, and 5.- Ito. And the 6th? Can you imagine the Christmas carol that follows dinner? Photo provided by Fran Hernández.
The annual gathering on the eve of Christ has brought to mind an article by Elfidio Alonso, published in “EL DÍA” on 14 September 1965
Today, we present the full article written by Elfidio Alonso. This year, life’s twists will lead him to the central stage in the Plaza del Cristo next Sunday to receive a tribute accompanied by 48,000 watts of sound—an event where I hope the 50th anniversary of the article will not be commemorated:
Last night, in the Plaza de San Francisco, festivities began. There was a buzz of activity, joyous gatherings, and merriment filling the booths. It can be said that “La Víspera,” as part of the Christ celebrations, is a tradition that seldom appears on official programmes, but locals know it by heart. Year after year, it has become a traditional gathering. The people of La Laguna refer to “La Víspera” almost nonchalantly, as “Our festival.”
Last night, the plaza was enveloped in those unmistakable aromas wafting from grilled meats and marinades. People from all around the city gathered, mixing families of means, artisans, and visitors at the tables of the booths; renowned performers were invited to partake in the celebrations of “La Víspera del Cristo,” which always offers the finest opportunity for them to showcase their talents.
The lively timple, the most convenient instrument to carry, is an essential companion for any impromptu performer. However, it contends with the intrusive sound systems that overshadow genuine folk expressions. The loudspeakers from booths offering enormous, gaudy prizes threaten to detract from the traditional gatherings and our folk songs. Last night in the Plaza de San Francisco, we witnessed this once again.
Electronics Prevail
It can be said that “La Víspera” is the only traditional rite within the popular celebrations of Christ. Yet, with the rise of electronics—speakers and “ye-yé” music festivals—traditional programmes unique to each locality are gradually falling behind. Recently, during the festivities in La Palma, a song festival garnered the utmost attention. Here lies a new trend. Since the inception of the San Remo Festival, such events have proliferated. La Laguna had its festival as well, and it must be noted that it drew an impressive crowd. I have never seen the Teatro Leal so packed, perhaps only rivalled by the previous visit of the “Dúo Dinámico.”
(…) All our local festivities are becoming homogenised. Loudspeakers, fireworks, and electronic music dominate. If a Tenerife resident wishes to see a traditional performance or distinctive local custom, they must search tirelessly in remote areas far from the major cities (…).
“La Víspera” is Popular
What is “La Víspera del Cristo”? It is characterised by improvisation, overflowing joy, noise, gatherings, food stalls, and the aroma of grilled meat. And tradition.
“La Víspera” deserves greater recognition; attention to detail should be improved—certainly by eliminating loudspeakers—which does not imply “organising” it, as the best traditional performances are those that are spontaneous. The local council could set up booths for the groups and dance troupes to perform. I know many might be thinking about the Fair of Seville. No, that’s not the aim; what we request is a modicum of attention for that night, which teems with local spirit; an event that costs the organisers little as it is crafted by the community, irrespective of social class.
For me—a proud local and lover of tradition—“La Víspera” has always been a truly admirable festive event. The unfortunate reality is that, due to its regularity, the delight in it year after year leads to it being taken for granted. The same has occurred with countless folk traditions, which today are semi-forgotten, distorted, or vanished… Today, all we can do is ask for a fundamental sense of responsibility from the organisers. The adage that “festivals cost a lot of money” seems misguided.
To strive to preserve the traditions that ultimately define a community is neither a daunting nor an expensive endeavour for local governments. The best example is “La Víspera”: a “simple,” spontaneous event unique to La Laguna, crafted by the people. How long will it last?
