Delving into Bajamar means delving into a picturesque coastal village nestled in the northwest of Tenerife. A mesmerising and enchanting place, ripe for contemplation and a wellspring of inspiration for numerous writers. Similarly, this charming coastal hamlet once drew in hordes of tourists, particularly Germans, in the 1960s and 1970s, all drawn by its natural pools, Bajamar and San Juan beaches, along with the captivating Charco del Mariane and Charco Redondo natural pools, and the surf areas of Baja Nueva, El Paso, El Lobo, and Las Bordas.
As for its traditional fiestas, Bajamar hosts the Grand Power of God festivals from August 7 to 25. Alongside the patron saint celebrations, the Bajamar International Folk Festival, organised by the Isogue Folkloric Group, takes place. Additionally, the Bajamar 3×3 Basketball Championship, the oldest in the Canary Islands (established in 1993), and in recent years, the Las Viejas Glorias del Paso festival, which brings together veteran and modern surfers from the region.
Heading the Bajamar Festival Commission of the Grand Power of God are Luis Vandewalle Abreu, president, and Andrés Gómez Iglesias, secretary, a dynamic duo ensuring the festivals are rich in community representation. Luis Vandewalle Abreu emphasised that “we are dedicated to these festivities because the people of Bajamar deserve engaging events, and also because this beautiful enclave has a profound history.” He added, “we receive support from La Laguna City Council, particularly from the Festival Department, along with the members of our Festival Commission, residents, and local businesses.”
On the other hand, Andrés Gómez Iglesias reminisced, “1997 marked the inaugural celebration in Bajamar. Furthermore, Carnivals have been a tradition in Bajamar since 2001.” “I must highlight that our festivities last year were a tremendous success, especially considering they were initially in doubt, but thankfully, we decided to commit altruistically,” he remarked.
Turning to commercial and touristic activities, Luis Vandewalle Abreu candidly remarked, “it’s no secret that Bajamar faces resource constraints, lacking crucial facilities such as parking lots, hotels, inns, and hostels that would enable tourists and locals to stay overnight, especially during peak holiday periods.” He noted, “business and tourism are relatively feeble.”
Wrapping up, Andrés Gómez Iglesias expressed, “we strive for the best interests of Bajamar residents, banding together and pooling the necessary resources. Those of us devoted to the Fiestas del Gran Poder de Bajamar strive to make our contributions. It’s a month-long endeavour that consumes us entirely, ensuring that the esteemed festive tradition is not lost.”
