When planning a holiday in the Canary Islands, most travellers expect to see beaches, sun and the ocean, however, beyond the tourist routes lie centuries-old traditions that set this archipelago apart from others.
The Canaries combine the cultural heritage of Spanish, African, Latin American and even Guanche civilisations. It is this unique blend that creates a deep cultural palette that leaves no one indifferent.
Visitors are often unaware that there are customs on these islands that are not found on the mainland. The locals preserve folk rites, festive rituals and linguistic features that change the perception of ‘Spanish’ identity. By immersing themselves in the life of the islanders, tourists can not only discover new traditions but also better understand the spirit of this part of the world.
Interestingly, even in the modern tourist environment - where services such as online casino v czk are becoming increasingly popular - the authenticity of the Canaries remains unchanged. The cultural diversity that has developed over the centuries is presented to travellers in the form of annual festivals, gastronomic creations, and everyday habits that continue to be passed down from generation to generation.
The Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is considered the second largest in the world after the Brazilian one in Rio de Janeiro. However, its atmosphere has a unique local flavour that distinguishes it from other similar holidays. The carnival begins with a colourful opening ceremony, during which a queen is chosen among local beauties.
Features of the Santa Cruz Carnival
Unlike carnivals in other regions of Spain, there is an atmosphere of spontaneity where everyone can become a participant in the action. The Santa Cruz Carnival is not only a colourful spectacle but also a form of cultural expression. The holiday ends in an unusual way - with the burial of a sardine, which symbolises farewell to winter.
The cuisine of the Canary Islands combines simplicity and ingenuity. It is based on local products such as potatoes, goat cheese, fresh fish and corn flour. One of the main gastronomic specialities is a dish called gofio, a roasted and crushed grain that is added to soups, desserts or eaten alone.
What to eat in the Canaries:
Food here is not only about taste but also about preserving historical ties with ancestors. The Guanches, the natives of the Canary Islands, have passed on their culinary habits, which are echoed in modern recipes. It is through the dishes that tourists feel an invisible connection with the archipelago's past.
A unique form of communication has been preserved on the island of La Gomera - the whistle language of Silbo Gomero. It arose in the mountainous terrain, where traditional speech was ineffective. Thanks to these whistles, the locals could transmit messages over a distance of several kilometres.
Facts about Silbo Gomero:
This unique method of communication surprises foreigners because it allows them to convey complex phrases through changes in tone and intonation. It is not only a cultural value, but also a living symbol of the region's identity.
Religious processions, known as romerias, are held throughout the archipelago. These are colourful events that combine Catholic traditions with folk festivals. People dress in traditional costumes, decorate carts, prepare food and bring gifts to the patron saints of their cities.
Elements of traditional romance:
Romerias combine faith, music and social cohesion. They are a manifestation of the islanders' deep spiritual connection to their ancestors and the land. Visitors from other countries can witness sincere emotions and see how spirituality takes on vivid, folkloric forms.
Canarian villages and towns have a recognisable architecture that combines elements of the Spanish colonial style with local building materials. White facades, wooden balconies and tiled roofs are an integral part of the landscape.
Traditional buildings are characteristic:
These architectural elements create an atmosphere of comfort and at the same time emphasise the cultural uniqueness of the place. Travelling around the islands, tourists come across both old buildings dating back to the 16th century and modern interpretations of historical forms.
Island festivals: dances, rhythms and unforgettable experiences
Each island has its own festive events that differ in theme and style. For example, Lanzarote hosts a festival of fire, and Gran Canaria has a festival of music and colour. All these events attract not only residents but also foreign visitors.
The most popular events:
The celebrations are accompanied by fireworks, dancing and artistic performances. Each of them carries a part of the island's soul, inviting tourists to an emotional immersion in the local culture.
Traditional clothing in the Canary Islands varies from island to island, but everywhere it reflects historical features, climatic conditions and social structure. Embroidered shirts, colourful skirts and palm leaf hats are particularly popular.
Local handicrafts kept in family workshops are also worth checking out:
Travellers who visit the craft fairs can not only buy authentic products but also learn the stories behind each item. Even in the digital age, when many people prefer modern forms of leisure, such as Mostbet Casino, traditional Canarian arts remain an integral part of the local culture.
In the Canary Islands, Christmas is not accompanied by snow and frost, but by gentle sunshine and temperatures of 20°C. However, this does not diminish the festive atmosphere - on the contrary, it adds a special exoticism to it.
All towns and villages are decorated with garlands, lanterns and nativity scenes. Belenes, miniature compositions depicting the birth of Jesus, play a special role in Christmas traditions. They are installed in parks, squares and even in shops.
In Las Palmas, on the island of Gran Canaria, a unique sand nativity scene is created every year on the beach of Las Canteras - a real work of art made of sand.https://www.princess-hotels.com/en/blog/this-is-how-easter-is-celebrated-in-the-canary-islands/
Christmas Eve and Christmas traditions
In the Canaries, the most anticipated holiday is not 25th December, but 6th January - the Day of the Three Kings (Reyes Magos). The day before, on 5th January, there is a magnificent procession of the Three Kings, who give out gifts to children. The streets are filled with carriages, actors in costumes throw sweets - it's a spectacular show that both children and adults love.
The Canaries have preserved the tradition of Catholic processions, which are held with great solemnity. In different cities of the islands - especially in La Laguna (Tenerife) and Arrecife (Lanzarote) - processions are organised with figures of Jesus, the Virgin Mary and saints dressed in robes with veils.
Participants often walk barefoot, holding large crosses or candles. The atmosphere is quiet and deeply spiritual, accompanied by chanting and drumming. On Sundays, festive music is heard in the squares, and the faithful gather for a festive mass. The mood changes to one of joy and brightness - a symbol of the victory of life over death.
The Canary Islands are not just beaches, wine, and palm trees. Their picturesque landscapes hide a deep culture that has been shaped for centuries by the influence of Africa, Spain, and the indigenous Guanche people. The distinctive customs, such as traditional sports, unique cuisine, festive events and everyday rituals, leave an unforgettable impression on travellers.
Immersing yourself in these customs gives you the opportunity to understand the true rhythm of local life. From participating in carnivals to tasting original dishes, every element of the Canary Islands' culture adds depth to the trip. It is through these authentic elements that travellers get not just a holiday, but a real cultural experience that changes the perception of the usual tourist routes.
Travelling through this archipelago, you should open your heart to local traditions, as they are the key to understanding the soul of the Canary Islands. They can not only surprise but also inspire, leaving behind fond memories and a desire to return again.
