Celebrating Creativity: The First Edition of Saturnalia Cultural in Puerto del Rosario
Introduction to Saturnalia Cultural
Puerto del Rosario has just wrapped up the inaugural edition of Saturnalia Cultural, a dynamic cultural initiative launched by the Town Hall’s Department of Culture. Held from December 2 to December 17, 2025, the Casa de la Cultura transformed into a vibrant hub for literature, poetry, theater, and contemporary thought. This event not only showcased artistic talent but also fostered community bonds through culture.
A Diverse Cultural Agenda
Over the span of two weeks, Saturnalia Cultural presented a rich and varied calendar filled with high-quality events aimed at audiences of all ages. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with prominent authors and creators from both the Canary Islands and mainland Spain. The programming included an eclectic mix of performances, book presentations, poetry recitals, and educational workshops, firmly establishing Puerto del Rosario as a cultural beacon each December.
Opening Night Performances
The festival kicked off on December 2 with the poetic-musical spectacle Las nanas según Lorca, performed by the Ultramarinos de Lucas company. This captivating performance was inspired by the 1928 lecture of Federico García Lorca on Spanish lullabies, drawing an enthusiastic response from the audience. It set a high standard for the events that would follow, blending nostalgic melodies with poetic imagery.
A Spotlight on Literature
Literature was at the heart of many events, with significant presentations featuring works such as Las despedidas by Jacobo Bergareche, Cárcel de tinieblas by Juan Manuel de Prada, and Secreto y pasión de la literatura by journalist and writer Juan Cruz. The latter closed the festival on December 17 with a profound reflection on influential figures in Spanish and Latin American narrative, emphasizing the lasting impact of literature on society.
Celebration of Poetry
At the festival, poetry took center stage with the new edition of Puerto es Poesía, featuring performances by Alicia Llarena and Beatriz Morales, accompanied by guitarist Pedro Clemente. This event highlighted Puerto del Rosario’s commitment to contemporary poetic creation, offering an emotional and artistic experience that resonated deeply with attendees.
Workshops for Aspiring Writers
In addition to performances, the program included valuable educational components. Notably, the micro-story workshop Grandes historias en pequeño formato, led by writer Yurena González Herrera, allowed participants to explore brief narrative techniques in a hands-on environment. This empowering session cultivated new writing skills and ignited creativity among budding authors.
Honoring Legacy and Commitment to Rights
One of the most poignant moments of Saturnalia Cultural was the presentation of the book Pedro Zerolo. Vida y legado de un pionero por los derechos civiles. This event not only paid homage to the activist and politician but also underscored the festival’s dedication to democratic memory, equality, and human rights, resonating with current social issues.
Community Reception and Future Endeavors
The Town Hall of Puerto del Rosario received overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding the festival’s execution, both in terms of the quality of offerings and the enthusiastic public response. Mayor David de Vera and Culture Councilor Juan Manuel Verdugo have both expressed the importance of nurturing ongoing cultural initiatives that connect literature, poetry, and the performing arts with the community.
Establishing a Cultural Tradition
With this successful iteration, Saturnalia Cultural is poised to become a hallmark event in Puerto del Rosario’s cultural calendar. Its commitment to provide accessible, diverse, and high-quality cultural experiences sets a solid foundation for future editions, ensuring that creativity and artistic expression remain integral to the community.
