Chago Melián, a renowned local artist, officially kicked off the San Benito Abad 2026 celebrations on Thursday with an emotional speech during the traditional pregón. The singer and painter captivated the audience with his reflections on his love for La Laguna and its rich cultural heritage.
The event began with a speech from the mayor, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, who praised Melián as a key figure in Canarian culture, noted for his unique blend of music and painting that expresses the islands’ identity and spirituality. He highlighted Melián’s successful career, which has taken him beyond the Canary Islands to perform in Spain and America.
Melián addressed the audience from the San Benito hermitage, emphasising the historical significance of the venue. He shared fond memories of his childhood in La Laguna, recalling his experiences at the Colegio San Alberto Magno and the influence of local artistic traditions, particularly from the renowned Trujillo family of silversmiths.
He reminisced about the charm of La Laguna’s cobbled streets, the sound of carts, and the vibrant San Benito romerías, recalling how his mother would take him to witness the festivities. Melián vividly described the joyful atmosphere, filled with music, traditional costumes, and the lively spirit of the celebrations.
A standout memory for him was witnessing the white-sailed boats parading through the streets—an image that continues to resonate with him today. He expressed how these memories have shaped his identity and highlighted the importance of preserving such traditions.
Melián concluded his poignant address by acknowledging the contributions of those who keep Canarian music and folklore alive. He called the San Benito celebrations a living testament to the identity of the community, celebrating its roots with pride. The event wrapped up with a musical performance by Melián and other local folk artists, showcasing songs from his show ‘Brezo y salitre’.
