The coastal enclave of Punta del Hidalgo, in La Laguna, celebrated this Sunday the traditional embarkation of the Virgin of Carmen, with hundreds of people following the land and sea route.
On Sunday, July 26, the coastal neighbourhood of Punta del Hidalgo, in La Laguna, once again hosted the traditional maritime procession of the Virgin of Carmen, which gathered hundreds of faithful and visitors. The image made its way through the streets to the pier, where it was embarked to sail along the coastal waters of La Laguna, in an event filled with devotion and emotion.
The mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, attended the event accompanied by the Councillor for Festivals, Dailos González, and other members of the municipal corporation. Gutiérrez highlighted that “this event means much more than a celebration; it is a gathering where countless emotions come together, and we pay tribute to so many generations who have made the coast their way of life.” The mayor emphasized that the celebration is “a way to exalt and keep alive this collective memory and, at the same time, an act of identity and pride for the people of Punta and for the rest of the municipality.”
For his part, Dailos González highlighted “the beautiful scene we were able to enjoy this Sunday, with numerous boats decorated for the occasion and the emotion visible on the faces of the many people who, selflessly, have made it possible for this tradition to add another edition filled with feeling and devotion.”
The religious ceremony began around 6:00 PM. Once finished, the image was transported on foot from the Olga Ramos square to the pier, where one of the most anticipated moments took place: the embarkation of the Virgin, accompanied by the performance of the Ave María from the Roquete, by soloist Miriam Reyes and guest artist Nayra González. The maritime procession set off towards Bajamar and Jóver, while on land a musical performance by Chago Melián was offered.
After the crossing, the Virgin returned to the pier of Punta del Hidalgo, where a large crowd awaited her return. The day concluded with a fireworks display and a cultural closing. The festival, which is repeated every year, is one of the most deeply rooted in the municipality of La Laguna, especially in coastal areas like Punta del Hidalgo, Bajamar, or La Barranquera, where fishing tradition and Marian devotion intertwine.
The massive participation of locals and visitors demonstrates the deep-rooted nature of this celebration, which not only has a religious character but also acts as an element of social cohesion and highlights the cultural and intangible heritage of La Laguna. The organization was carried out by the City Council of La Laguna, through the Department of Festivals, and involved the collaboration of the brotherhood of the Virgin of Carmen and numerous volunteers.
For attendees, the main day of the Virgin of Carmen is an unmissable event. Many return year after year, like María, a resident of Punta del Hidalgo who claims she never misses this event: “It’s a lifelong tradition, the Virgin protects us at sea, and it’s an honour to accompany her.” The festival, which combines religiosity, music, and a festive atmosphere, has established itself as a benchmark in the festive calendar of the island of Tenerife.
With the return of the image to her chapel, a day was concluded that once again demonstrated the strength of popular traditions in La Laguna. The City Council is already working on the organization of the next edition, which is expected to maintain the same programme of events.
You may also like
