Santa Cruz de Tenerife Hosts MICE Professionals at Heliodoro Rodríguez López Stadium
Over 200 professionals gathered in Santa Cruz de Tenerife this Friday at the Heliodoro Rodríguez López Stadium to explore the city’s offerings as a venue for congresses and corporate events. The event highlighted Santa Cruz’s potential in the MICE sector, which includes meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, and is considered a vital part of the local economy.
Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez emphasised the significance of MICE tourism for stimulating economic activity, distributing visitor numbers throughout the year, and creating new opportunities for local businesses. This gathering formed part of the Global MICE Forum National Agencies & Corporate 2026, one of Spain’s key platforms for business tourism.
The presence of buyers, specialised agencies, and event managers from major national companies provided Santa Cruz with a unique opportunity to showcase itself as a prime location for future congresses and conventions. The aim was to strengthen the city’s reputation as a versatile destination with unique spaces and complementary offerings in gastronomy and culture.
Carmen Pérez, CEO of the Development Society, explained that the choice of Heliodoro Stadium was intentional. She noted its capacity to accommodate various professional events, which was vital for demonstrating its potential.
The programme included an institutional welcome and a networking session allowing direct interaction among participants to foster collaborations and discover business opportunities. Pérez highlighted that the day was designed to offer more than just a venue, incorporating team-building activities to create a memorable experience and reinforce Santa Cruz’s professional image.
Local cuisine was a significant aspect of the event, featuring offerings from the Club Degusta Santa Cruz, a public-private initiative promoting local restaurants and products. Attendees tasted dishes prepared by chefs connected to the city, including Ignacio Solana and Armando Saldanha, complemented by a selection of Tenerife wines.
Pérez reiterated that integrating gastronomy into Santa Cruz’s economic promotion strategy is crucial for establishing the city as an events destination. She viewed the event as a positive step towards solidifying the city’s presence in the national MICE market. The local government plans to continue boosting Santa Cruz’s visibility in this sector by collaborating with specialised agents and highlighting the city’s unique spaces and cultural offerings.
