20 Años de Farándula, 20 Años de Amigos
A Celebration Like No Other
This Friday, May 9, Puerto del Rosario is set to host a special celebration: the 20th anniversary of one of its most beloved venues, La Farándula. From 2 PM until 2 AM, the area behind the church will transform into a vibrant celebration featuring live music, DJs, local cuisine, and a host of emotions. This isn’t just a gathering for music and dancing; it’s a milestone in the history of a place that has served as a home for thousands over the past two decades.
José Antonio Pevida: The Heart Behind La Farándula
At the heart of this beloved establishment is José Antonio Pevida, affectionately known as Tony “Farándula.” Hailing from Asturias, Tony arrived in Fuerteventura in 2002, bringing along years of hospitality experience from Oviedo. In 2005, he took a leap of faith and planted roots in Puerto del Rosario to open what he envisioned as a small venture, which has blossomed into an iconic institution.
Reflecting on the early days, Tony admits, “The first two years were nearly disastrous.” However, through hard work and perseverance, everything began to click.
“By the fifth anniversary, it was clear that La Farándula was a solid, established project with a clear intention: a place for friends, a place to be, a spot to find a friend in Puerto del Rosario,” he recalls.
A Family Affair
The journey of La Farándula has been marked by collective effort, with Tony highlighting his sister Charo as a pivotal figure in this story. “La Farándula would be nothing today without Charo. I owe her so much; we have fought together. She is the unseen face that makes the music play,” he shares.
Tony also expresses profound appreciation for Pablo, his trusted manager. “He’s the soul of the place, almost as much as I am. Pablo is my anchor, the one who sometimes pulls my ear. He’s always there and never lets me down; he’s a powerhouse,” Tony adds.
Trials and Triumphs
The path has not been without hurdles. The pandemic forced the cancellation of the 15th-anniversary celebration and created challenging years for the hospitality industry. Yet, even amidst lockdowns, La Farándula remained a gathering hub through Tony’s heartfelt live streams on social media.
“I received support messages from all over the place. People sent me photos of themselves confined with family, thanking me for what I was doing… I get emotional just recounting it,” Tony reflects.
A Grand 20th Anniversary Bash
As Tony describes, the 20th-anniversary party will be a spectacular affair, promising to “throw the house out the window.” Attendees can look forward to performances from Los Lola, STNV, DJ Javi Chacón, the Farándula DJs, and the ‘Movida Ibiza’ show featuring Petit & Vázquez, Passion Dance, and LuGotti Sax.
Food will also play a central role during the celebrations, with a spread of traditional favorites including fabada, paella, poultry, and garbanzada for all attendees to enjoy. Entrance to this festive occasion is free—an invitation that is as open as Tony’s heart, inviting all to partake in the joy of togetherness.
The Essence of La Farándula
Since its inception, La Farándula has been a sanctuary of joy, connections, whispers, and friendship. “In 20 years, there are so many stages. Five years can change your life, and in 20… you see friends come and go. When I see a customer walk in that I haven’t seen in 16 years, it feels like it was just yesterday,” Tony expresses, his eyes glimmering with nostalgia.
The invitation to the celebration is wide open. “Everyone is welcome: people from Corralejo, Antigua, Morro Jable, Lanzarote, and Las Palmas… They all come to hear about La Farándula. I hope to see you all in person, to thank each of you as you deserve.”
In every corner of La Farándula, the spirit of friendship and unforgettable moments thrives, making it not just a bar, but a cherished piece of Puerto del Rosario’s heart.
