Colors of Gran Canaria - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The inhabitants of Gran Canaria - an island associated with that very “paradise on earth” - conquer travelers at first sight. They are always friendly, generous, and ready to help. At the same time, they are quite restrained, which distinguishes them from Spaniards with their burning temper. They tolerate everything - all this is due to the fact that marriages between Spaniards and the indigenous Guanche people were not condemned here. Local people are also known for their religiosity. Festivals in honor of this or that patron saint are often held here.

It is also worth noting that locals mostly consider themselves descendants of the Guanche, and can often argue about alternative scenarios - how would it be if they were free from Spain. You should be ready for this. However, it should be borne in mind that this is just talking, they never take it seriously. It's also worth mentioning some relaxed and unhurried character of locals, which is probably influenced by the weather. It also contributes to their extraordinary peace-loving nature - and this is understandable: how could you be evil in this piece of paradise?

Like in Spain, the most popular word on the Canary Islands is “magnana”. It means the mythical “tomorrow” - the day when all things will be done, and everything that is planned will finally be fulfilled. Therefore, it is sometimes needed to hurry Canarians, otherwise, this fantastic "tomorrow" may never come. The main thing is not to succumb to this mood yourself, although it's worth learning from them such a relaxed attitude towards life and the ability to enjoy every moment. It should be noted that the main value in the life of every Canarian is the family, and anyone would stand up for it. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The relaxing nature of local residents manifests itself even in their language - it is quite melodic and slow. It is dominated by Castilian dialect with some of its slang words, so this is a great chance to improve your language skills. Local cuisine is the abundance of potatoes, cheeses and dairy products. Dishes that should be tried first and foremost include “Gofio” (wheat flour with the addition of any products - fruits, milk, vegetables), “Conejo” (Canarian for "rabbit", that is, rabbit in sauce). And, of course, seafood and fish prepared in any possible way. The most popular alcoholic drinks are wine, rum, beer, and liquor.

Gran Canaria is known for celebrating any event “on a grand scale,” or “de tiros largos,” as locals would say. The Carnival of Las Palmas is rightly considered the most colorful event. Usually, it is held in February, sometimes the date falls on the beginning of March. It is in no way inferior in color to the famous celebration in Rio de Janeiro. The same things happen here - costume parades, musical concerts, theatrical performances, fire show, local cuisine tastings. Of course, the culmination of the festival is colorful fireworks incomparable in their picturesqueness. The holiday is not complete without "Carnival Queen" selection; there is also a competition for the best costume.

Fiesta de las Nieves takes place in Agaete, the north-west of the island, in early August. This is nothing but a celebration of the patron saint of the city. At this time, people take part in the carnival, raising up branches and carrying them in their hands to the sanctuary of the saint. It is believed that the holiday originally marked the attempts of ancient inhabitants to make it rain. At this time, the locals performed a traditional dance. Later the event became a Christian holiday. The festival is also known as Bajada de la Rama, that is, “Bringing Down the Branches”.

One of the festivals that must be included in your vacation is called Fiesta de los Aborígenes, which is held at the end of April in Fortaleza Grande. It is dedicated to the events of 1483 when the Guanches rebelled against Spain and Gran Canaria joined the Kingdom of Castile. The program includes music and dance shows. In mid-September, arriving in Gran Canaria, and more specifically, in Puerto de la Aldea, you can witness Fiesta del Charco. At this time, you can see the customs of the ancient inhabitants. For example, it is customary to wade through a lagoon and catch fish with bare hands, splashing others with water.

In mid-October, there is Fiestas de la Naval with the main venue in Las Palmas. Festive events cover other cities as well, but it is here where the most spectacular actions take place. This is nothing but a tribute to the Invincible Armada, which won a crushing victory over the British fleet commanded by the famous Francis Drake himself. People arrange a sea regatta, thus reminding of this significant event. El Corte Inglés, the largest automobile rally in Gran Canaria, takes place in late April or early May. The racing begins in Ingenio and ends in Tejeda, then runs from Artenara to Valleseco, and the final stage is from Telde to Ayakata.

An interesting gastronomic event takes place in late April, and its name is Fiestas del Queso. The venue is Santa Maria de Guia. It is dedicated to cheese since the region has long been famous for its production. In addition to tastings and workshops, interesting dance and music programs are prepared for visitors. On December 28th, the so-called Holy Innocents Day is celebrated throughout the Canary Islands - it is something like April 1 in the rest of the world. At this time, it's customary to joke and pull of pranks against friends. In addition, even the media are joking, which makes the festive atmosphere even more inspiring.

On May 30, festive processions are held throughout the Canary Islands. The thing is that this date marks the Day of the Canary Islands, or Día de Canarias. Besides parades, visitors to the festival can enjoy musical concerts, including performances of folk bands, as well as Canarian wrestling competitions. All this make it one of the best holidays for exploring the local culture wherever it is held. However, it's preferable to choose larger cities for this purpose, of course.