Celebrating the Día de Canarias in La Oliva: A Cultural Extravaganza

The Ayuntamiento de La Oliva is gearing up for an exciting two-week celebration of the Día de Canarias, running from May 19 to May 30. Led by the concejalías of Commerce and Culture, this vibrant festival promises to showcase the rich traditions, heritage, and identity of the Canary Islands through a series of engaging activities. Let’s dive deeper into what’s in store!

Cultural Activities: Embracing Canarian Heritage

The Concejalía de Cultura is presenting a special program from May 19 to May 24 in Los Lajares. This initiative aims to highlight Canarian traditions and includes a diverse array of events tailored for families and children to immerse themselves in their cultural roots.

Key activities include traditional games, lectures, and workshops. One particular highlight is a workshop on Canarian traditional attire, where participants can learn how to wear the distinctive clothing and how to tie traditional scarves. This hands-on experience invites all ages to connect with their heritage.

A standout event during this week is the I Chef Master de Canarias and the Campeonato de Canarias en Edad Escolar, alongside the friendly tournament “Amigos de la Bola Canaria,” which focuses on traditional games.

On May 23, attendees can look forward to an electrifying performance by Olga Cerpa & Mestisay, who will serenade the crowd with their concert titled “Atlantic Sounds.”

The cultural week concludes with a vibrant Baile Popular Canario on May 24, featuring local folklore groups and parrandas. The festivities will begin in the morning and extend into the night, featuring an artisanal market as part of the Cabildo Insular de Fuerteventura’s “No olvides lo nuestro” initiative. Visitors will have the chance to witness goat milking demonstrations and enjoy traditional children’s music performances.

This final event, cherished by the local community, reflects the collaborative spirit of the residents of La Oliva as they work together year after year to bring this celebration to life.

Commerce Activities: Fostering Local Trade

Switching gears, the Concejalía de Comercio is also making its mark with the ‘Semana de Canarias Enyesque Comercial en Corralejo’, scheduled for May 26 to May 30. Residents and tourists alike are invited to experience Canarian culture through a gastro-artisanal market along Avenida Nuestra Señora del Carmen.

This exciting series of events includes musical performances, cooking shows, workshops, and tastings, all aimed at promoting local products and culinary traditions. Attendees can partake in authentic dishes and learn about the unique flavors that define Canarian cuisine.

Adding an element of fun, the campaign titled “La Ruleta del Tenderete” will reward customers with a total of 4,000 euros in prizes for shopping at participating establishments. This initiative aims to enliven the commercial area and stimulate local businesses.

On May 28, a special gastronomic workshop will be hosted in El Cotillo focusing on one of the island’s signature products: goat meat. This hands-on experience will not only educate participants but also celebrate the local agriculture and cuisine.

Community Spirit: Voices from Local Leaders

The mayor of La Oliva, Isaí Blanco, emphasizes the significance of embracing Canarian traditions during the Día de Canarias. He states, “Every year, we showcase our intent to celebrate this day, aiming to share our tradition, effort, hospitality, and pride.” His passion for promoting local culture is evident and highlights the community’s enduring identity.

Alexandra Martín, the consellera of Commerce, expresses the vision behind the various activities: “Our goal is to unite tradition, gastronomy, commerce, and community participation, showcasing everything that represents our Canarian identity.”

On a similar note, David Hernández, the consellera of Culture, underscores the necessity of showcasing their traditions. He remarks, “It is vital for us to continue introducing our cultural heritage—who we are and the unique aspects of our traditions.”

This dedication to preserving and celebrating Canarian culture extends beyond festive events. The Concejalía de Educación, under the guidance of Omaira Saavedra, is expanding its outreach by facilitating workshops in local schools, ensuring that the younger generations are also engaged in this cultural revival.

As the festivities approach, the Ayuntamiento de La Oliva continues to strengthen community ties while celebrating the rich tapestry that makes up Canarian identity. The events promise not merely to entertain but to educate and unite residents and visitors, making for a truly memorable Día de Canarias.