Celebrating 20 Years of Fuerteventura en Música: A Cultural Beacon in the Canary Islands
The Fuerteventura en Música (FEM) festival is set to celebrate its 20th edition on July 3 and 4, marking two decades of cultural vibrancy in the archipelago. This year, the festival returns to the picturesque coastal town of El Cotillo, known for its stunning beaches and welcoming atmosphere. The event promises to be a multicultural extravaganza, paying tribute to Dania Dévora, the festival’s founder, who sadly passed away in March.
A Special Tribute
The official presentation of this momentous edition was graced by influential figures such as Lola García, the president of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura; Isaí Blanco, the mayor of La Oliva; Rayco León, the insular culture advisor; and David Hernández, the culture councilor. Each speaker emphasized the legacy of Dévora and the festival’s commitment to its founding principles: multiculturalism, environmental sustainability, and musical fusion.
Before her passing, Dévora took on the artistic direction of this commemorative edition, a role that will now be carried on by her son, Sergio Miró, in collaboration with the organizing team. Miró expressed the excitement his mother had for this anniversary, noting that rather than a reflection on the past, this edition aims to celebrate the unique identity of FEM within the global festival landscape.
El Cotillo: A Cultural Meeting Point
As the summer unfolds, El Cotillo transforms into a cultural and tourist hotspot, with the FEM festival at its heart. Isaí Blanco highlighted the importance of these gatherings, where music intersects with a deep respect for the natural surroundings. Rayco León further emphasized the role of FEM as a cultural and social driving force over the past two decades, cementing its status as a significant event in the region.
An Eclectic International Lineup
The 20th edition of FEM promises an impressive array of artists from diverse backgrounds and musical styles, capturing the essence of cultural exchange. Notable names slated to perform include Antonio Carmona, a renowned musician from Granada; Femi Kuti, a celebrated figure in the afrobeat genre; the angolan artist Pongo, based in Lisbon; and the band Eskorzo from Granada.
Moreover, the lineup features La Sra. Tomasa, the Catalonian singer Queralt Lahoz, the Latin project Kumbia Boruka, and the duo Chanela Clicka. Representing local talent, the festival welcomes the singer-songwriter Marta Umpiérrez, the musical project Arife, and DJ Woodhands, ensuring that the festival celebrates both international and local artistry.
Commitment to Sustainability and Identity
One of the defining characteristics of FEM is its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. The organizing institutions encourage festival-goers to join them in preserving the natural beauty of Fuerteventura, a value that has resonated since the festival’s inception. Alongside evening concerts, the event will also feature daytime programming enriched by local cultural collectives, further enhancing the festival’s immersive experience.
With two decades of history behind it, Fuerteventura en Música stands as an independent festival that champions sonic diversity, ecological consciousness, and intercultural dialogue. It has become an essential fixture in the musical calendar of the Canary Islands and continues to resonate with both locals and visitors alike.
As preparations unfold for this milestone event, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community, all against the breathtaking backdrop of El Cotillo.
