Playa Blanca pays an emotional tribute to the Virgen del Carmen

Residents and visitors of Playa Blanca, in Yaiza, participated in the traditional maritime procession and floral offering in honour of the Virgen del Carmen, patroness of fishermen.

The port of Playa Blanca became the epicentre of maritime devotion this weekend. Hundreds of people gathered to pay tribute to the Virgen del Carmen, in a day that combined faith, tradition, and a festive atmosphere.

Maritime procession and floral offering

The image of the Virgen was transported in procession from the church to the dock, accompanied by faithful and local authorities. Once at sea, a flotilla of boats escorted the statue while petals were thrown into the water.

The mayor of Yaiza, Óscar Noda, highlighted the importance of keeping these traditions alive. "The Virgen del Carmen is a symbol of our identity and our connection to the sea," he declared during the event.

"It is moving to see how the community comes together to honour our patroness," the mayor added.

Community participation and festive atmosphere

The day included a floral offering in which many residents participated, as well as musical performances and a tasting of local products. The little ones enjoyed workshops and games organised by the Town Hall.

For many residents, this celebration is an unmissable event. "I've been coming since I was a child; it's a very special day for all of us who live here," commented María López, a resident of Playa Blanca.

Safety was ensured by Civil Protection and the Local Police, who oversaw the proper conduct of events both on land and at sea.

A legacy that endures

The festival of the Virgen del Carmen, celebrated every 16th of July, is one of the most deeply rooted in the coastal towns of the Canary Islands. In Yaiza, the tradition has been maintained continuously for decades, adapting to new times without losing its essence.

The Town Hall of Yaiza is already working on the programming for next year, aiming to expand activities and continue promoting citizen participation. The event is marked on the calendar as one of the most significant events of the summer in Lanzarote.