The Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries of Tacoronte City Council, in partnership with the Tenerife Livestock Breeders Association (AGATE) and the Tacoronte Farmer’s Market, has organised the city’s livestock festival in the San Juan neighbourhood, coinciding with the traditional celebrations honouring San Antonio Abad. These events are set to commence this Sunday.
On that day, the first two events of this edition will take place on the dirt area in front of the Farmer’s Market. At 10:00 a.m., a horse dressage demonstration will be conducted by Chico De la Cruz.
An hour later, the inaugural event of the XXXVII Tenerife Rural Foundation Trophy Government of the Canary Islands Livestock Drag Contest will begin, directed by the Canary Islands Drag Federation. With a total of 80 teams registered, this first day will feature 38 pairs tasked with completing the renowned 70-metre course in the quickest time possible, dragging weights ranging from 600 to 800 kilos.
A total of 37 livestock families from Tenerife are expected to attend the official launch of the contest. Throughout the day, the customary presentation of coyundas to a distinguished individual in the sector will occur, a piece crafted by the local saddler, Domingo Salcedo.
The event schedule includes the traditional ring race on horseback on the afternoon of Saturday the 18th, followed by a tribute to traditional crafts at the House of Culture. The San Antonio Abad Livestock Fair on Sunday the 19th, commencing at 10:00 a.m., along with the subsequent mass at the hermitage of San Juan Bautista, will signify the conclusion of the programmed activities for this year.
As is customary, the religious service will precede the procession of the patron saint of animals to the Livestock Fair, accompanied by local authorities and the Santa Cecilia Musical Group. During this event, the animals, including family pets who wish to participate, will receive blessings.
