No. 28 - Its Gran Canaria Magazine

10
GET TO KNOW GRAN CANARIA I CONOCE GRAN CANARIA EDICIÓN 28
Valsequillo
Fiestas of San Juan Bautista in Tenteniguada
Valsequillo is a magical and enchanting municipality
that captivates everyone lucky enough to
visit it. Surrounded by impressive mountains and
picturesque landscapes, this corner of Gran Canaria
has become an absolute treasure for nature
lovers.
One of the leading events in Valsequillo’s are the
Fiestas of San Juan Bautista in Tenteniguada, a
traditional celebration that fills every corner with
life and joy. These festivities are held at the end of
June, and pay homage to the patron saint of the
municipality, San Juan Bautista, offering a unique
opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in
the rich culture and deep-rooted traditions of this
region.
When people approach Tenteniguada during the
fiestas, they are energised by a festive and vibrant
atmosphere. The air is filled with the melody of
traditional songs and the hustle and bustle of
people gathering to enjoy this unique celebration.
The streets are adorned with colourful decorations
and flags, and the aromas of typical food
pervade the air, awakening the senses and whetting
the appetite of visitors.
The main square is the hub for the festivities,
where a beautiful and majestic church dedicated
to San Juan Bautista proudly stands. This church,
which features traditional Canarian architecture,
becomes the epicentre of the religious celebrations
during these festivities. The faithful congregate
to attend the solemn masses in honour
of the patron saint, filling the church with fervour
and devotion.
But the Fiestas de San Juan Bautista in Tenteniguada
are not limited to the religious faithful,
they also offer a wide range of activities and
events for everyone to enjoy. During the daytime,
the streets are filled with fairs and craft markets
where local products, including honey and traditional
cheeses, delight the palate of visitors with
their authentic and exquisite flavours.
The youngest members of the local community
are guaranteed to have their own fun. Children
delight in traditional games, such as sack races
and tug-of-war, while the more adventurous take
part in the traditional water games, cooling the
atmosphere and provoking laughter and contagious
smiles.
Music and dance are fundamental elements in
these festivities. Local folk groups come together
to perform traditional Canarian dances, filling the
square with their overflowing energy and joy. The
sound of castanets and the chords of traditional
instruments resonate in a vibrant and joyful symphony
that invites everyone to join in the dance
and celebrate Canarian culture.
One of the most eagerly awaited moments of
the fiestas is undoubtedly the night of San Juan.
When the sun goes down, locals and visitors gather
around huge bonfires, a symbol of purification
and renewal. Stories and legends are told, songs
are sung and people dance around the fire, while
sparks fly up into the starry sky. It is a magical
night, full of ancient rituals and the promise of
new beginnings.
The Fiestas of San Juan Bautista in Tenteniguada
are a real treasure for the senses, an encounter
with the history and traditions that are intricately
linked to the daily life of this wonderful area of
Gran Canaria. It is a time to share, and for communities
to come together and immerse themselves
in the cultural richness of this special place.