The veneration of Saint Anthony Abbot yesterday united thousands of individuals in La Matanza de Acentejo, Buenavista del Norte, and La Florida (La Orotava). In the former locality, festivities unfolded in the eponymous neighbourhood, drawing approximately 2,000 attendees, as estimated by the local council. Around a hundred ranchers participated in one of the most significant displays of cattle, horses, goats, and sheep in Tenerife, reaffirming both the strong agricultural roots and the livestock tradition in the region. Notably, a new generation emerged among the children and grandchildren of many attendees, alongside numerous younger individuals who engaged with the exhibition, the mass, and the procession of the saint. In total, approximately 650 animals were showcased, comprising 93 horses, 417 goats, 102 cows, and 40 sheep.
Starting from 10:00 a.m., when registrations opened, the fairgrounds welcomed hundreds of locals and visitors. The attendance took off in various sections of the livestock display, especially where horses, mares, and ponies were featured, situated just above the Barranco and the Battle of Acentejo Interpretation Centre. Around the parish of San Antonio, where the goats, sheep, and cattle were exhibited, attendees of all ages had the opportunity to connect with this vital aspect of rural life that remains significant on the Island.
In Buenavista del Norte, the livestock fair and pilgrimage once again transformed into a large-scale event steeped in tradition, drawing together residents and tourists alike in a spirit of camaraderie, devotion, and celebration.
From 11:00 a.m., numerous heads of cattle and goats, along with horses and domestic pets, began arriving at the fairgrounds in La Peña for display and evaluation by the team of veterinarians responsible for assigning prizes in various categories. As the morning unfolded, this area gathered a considerable crowd patiently anticipating the blessing of the livestock and the commencement of the pilgrimage, in addition to hosting over 20 participating carts, parrandas, and pilgrims from different locations.
The festivities concluded in the Plaza de Los Remedios with the lively pilgrims’ dance, animated by performances from the Malibú Band and Toke Latino orchestras.
