Puerto del Rosario Gears Up for the ‘Canarias Manga Festival’
As the weekend approaches, excitement is building in Puerto del Rosario for the much-anticipated ‘Canarias Manga Festival,’ which kicks off on Friday, October 27. This vibrant event, held annually, has developed a reputation for drawing manga and anime enthusiasts from all over, promising a unique experience for fans and newcomers alike.
A Transformative Festival Space
The festival will take place over a sprawling area of more than 9,000 square meters in the heart of Puerto del Rosario. Key locations include the main hub at Plaza de la Paz, along with neighboring streets and additional attractions like the rear of the Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario, Calle Virgen del Rosario, the Terrero de Puerto Cabras, and the Oasis Pavilion. The layout is designed to accommodate a variety of activities and ensure that there is something for everyone.
Community Involvement and Support
David de Vera, the Mayor of Puerto del Rosario, has expressed heartfelt thanks to all the individuals involved in organizing this event. He emphasized its importance, stating that the festival has become a key date on the cultural calendar for fans of Japanese culture. “We are proud to transform into the capital of manga and anime for several days,” he noted, highlighting the community spirit that underpins the festival’s success.
Cultural Richness and Activities
Enrique Soler, the Councillor for Culture, elaborated on the considerable effort behind this edition of the festival, both technically and in terms of volunteer involvement. He assured attendees that a wide range of engaging activities would be available for all family members throughout various locations at the event.
Puerto del Rosario will host over 120 guests from various parts of the globe, including regions like Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Málaga, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and even Japan. Notably, renowned wrestler Takumi Iroha, acclaimed for her exceptional skills and ranked 9.41 out of 10 in the Japanese Cagematch ranking, will be making a special appearance.
An Array of Engaging Features
A dedicated team of over 100 people is working tirelessly to ensure the festival’s success, featuring a comprehensive program that includes more than 15 different themed workshops. Attendees can explore an “Artist Alley” showcasing around 20 local artists presenting unique creations, indulge in live talks about traditional tea ceremonies, and admire an exhibition of traditional Japanese kimonos and yukatas. For gaming enthusiasts, more than 50 gaming devices will be available, alongside retro zones, drone exhibitions, and competitions featuring beloved characters.
The festival will also host the first official exhibition of TUBZZ in Europe, presenting over 200 iconic Numskull duck figurines. Attendees can look forward to the exclusive premiere of the documentary “Alfredo Garrido: La Banda Sonora de nuestra infancia,” which offers insights into the life and career of the beloved voice actor and composer who significantly impacted Spain’s audiovisual culture.
Special Guests and Entertainment
This year’s festival will feature special guests, including the famous family known as ‘FamilyTube,’ recognized for their entertaining YouTube videos. Attendees can also expect appearances from influential voice actors such as Álex Saudinós, Blanca Rada, and Pablo Domínguez, enriching the experience with their presence and insights.
A Stunning Transformation
In preparation for the festival, Puerto del Rosario is undergoing a colorful transformation. Vibrant decorations adorn the area, particularly at the main stage in Plaza de la Paz, where 23 wooden booths have been set up alongside an impressive audiovisual display featuring 20,000 watts of sound and 30,000 watts of lighting. This visual spectacle promises to elevate the lively atmosphere of the event.
Rising Interest and Engagement
The festival has generated incredible interest even before it begins, boasting over 4,000 visits to its official website and record registrations for the group and individual K-Pop competitions, as well as in gaming categories. On social media, the event has reached approximately 5,500 users, amassing around 70,000 impressions, further showcasing the community’s enthusiasm.
The ‘Canarias Manga Festival’ is set to be a landmark event, combining cultural richness, community involvement, and a passion for manga and anime. The anticipation is palpable, and Puerto del Rosario is ready to welcome thousands of fans for a weekend of celebration and creativity.
