The coastal setting of Hidalgo Point experienced a significant event on Sunday, 28th July, with the commemoration of the departure of the Virgin of Carmen. According to the Local Police, over 3,000 individuals gathered at this spot on the Laguna coast to join the procession of the image, both on land and at sea.
Once again this year, the Mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, participated in this celebration, alongside the Councillor for Festivities of La Laguna, Dailos González, and other council members.
The municipal representatives emphasised the emotional connection that this event creates in the town’s residents and the symbolic significance of this tradition in relation to safeguarding boats and fishermen, as well as paying homage to those who have lost their lives at sea.
Luis Yeray Gutiérrez also commended the vibrant atmosphere that prevailed throughout the day, from the customary recitation of the Holy Rosary to the crowded procession to the coast where the image was transported. The mayor noted, “It is worth mentioning Chago Melián’s touching rendition of Ave María, accompanied by José Manuel Ramos, which delighted all the attendees gathered here today.”
Concluding the event, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez praised the tremendous effort put into constructing the boat each year and organising all the festivities that make up this special day, particularly by the local festival committee.
One of the notable highlights of this year was the relocation of the boat carrying the image to La Barranquera in Valle de Guerra, covering a large portion of La Laguna’s coastline. The return of the Virgen del Carmen to her chapel marked the conclusion of the celebrations, which included a street party (featuring the La Calle orchestra) and family-friendly activities held in the vicinity of Punta del Hidalgo. The day transpired without any incidents, as confirmed by the Local Police of La Laguna.
