Yilenia Vega: “Seventeen days of uninterrupted celebration, where this year we wanted to give a small nod to all the children of the Tunte area and the surrounding countryside.”
Marco Aurelio Pérez: “All roads lead to Tunte... when July and the heat arrive, these elements encourage us to be in Tunte and enjoy family-friendly, popular festivals, where many people join us.”
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The Department of Festivities, headed by Yilenia Vega, presented this Tuesday, along with Mayor Marco Aurelio Pérez, the official program for the Santiago Apóstol Festival in Tunte. The festival will run from July 10th to 27th, with a schedule that combines religious, popular, children's, and musical events. Vega noted that it marks the beginning of "seventeen days of uninterrupted festivities, where this year we wanted to give a small nod to all the children of the Tunte area and surrounding countryside so they can come and enjoy the festivities."
Among the highlights, the Councilor for Festivities began by signaling the starting signal, which will be on Friday, July 11, with the opening speech by Manolo Santos in the town church. "This year's town crier is a beloved resident, born in Tunte, whose passion for the town's history has led him to become a leader in the recovery of the cultural and religious heritage of San Bartolomé de Tirajana," Vega emphasized. Following the start of the festivities in the Tunte church, the Tapas and Wine Night will be held, where local products such as wines and cheeses can be tasted.
On Saturday, July 12, one of the most anticipated events will be held: the Descent of the image of Santiago el Chico from El Pinar to Tunte. Regarding this event, Councilor Yilenia Vega emphasized that, after several years, "we hope the weather will be good and that it can actually take place, given that it is a wonderful experience, and I encourage all residents of the municipality to participate."
From Sunday to Wednesday the 16th, the program will focus on activities and entertainment for the little ones, with water slides, inflatables, face painting, and even a chocolate cake tasting. On Thursday, July 17th, it will be the turn of the older children, with the Seniors' Dinner, which will continue with a musical performance by Nueva Imagen y su Bandurria.
On Friday, July 18th, Youth Night will feature live music and a youthful atmosphere, featuring performances by Aseres, Pedro Afonso, and DJ Kilian. Attendees can also show off a touch of sparkle at the Glitter Corner.
The traditional Pilgrimage-Offering in honor of Santiago will take place on Saturday, July 19th, one of the most representative events of the festivities. The organizers emphasize the importance of attending in traditional Canarian attire, as a demonstration of the collective commitment to the town's customs. Following the pilgrimage, the Gran Verbena del Romero (Great Romero Festival) will be held, with performances by El Mulatito, D'Music, and a tribute to Manny Manuel: "Todo el Rey de Corazones" (All the King of Hearts). The following day, the Grand Foam Party will kick off the afternoon, leading to the Soloists' Gathering at 20:30 p.m., featuring the La Polvajera parranda group with soloists Eli López and Mary López, Josito Suárez, and Leandro López.
The Livestock Fair will take place on Thursday, July 24th, "an established event, much appreciated by residents and visitors," Vega emphasized. The event is held on the eve of St. James' Day, so Vespers Mass will take place at 19:30 p.m., followed by the Pilgrim's Procession. Starting at 21:30 p.m., the square will be filled with music with performances by Armonía Show, Star Music, and Leyenda Joven.
Santiago's Big Day will be on Friday, July 25th, beginning at 05:00 a.m. with the Diana Floreada (Flowered Diana) parade through the streets of Tunte. At 12:00 p.m., the solemn Eucharist will be celebrated, presided over by Don Francisco Mira, followed by the traditional procession with the saint's image, accompanied by the Little Estefanía band. At nightfall, the Grand Santiago Gala, "With the Soul of a Woman," will be held, paying tribute to Rosy Ortega, a resident of Santiago, "in recognition of a life dedicated to teaching and the art of transmitting through her hands. Her human and professional commitment has left its mark on the entire community," stated the Councilor for Celebrations and Events. The gala will be presented by Yanely Hernández and will feature a star performance by the City Dock Band and the Conchy Rodríguez ballet.
Saturday, July 26th, will be Family Day, kicking off with a Grand Prix and followed by a summer cinema, one of this year's new features. The festivities will conclude on Sunday, July 27th, with the now-classic Fiesta Blanca, a daytime celebration that this year will feature performances by the orchestras La Sabrosa, Son de Caney, and DJ Latino.
The mayor of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Marco Aurelio Pérez, emphasized that "this year the best festivities have been organized to celebrate the feast of Santiago. There's an old saying that goes: all roads lead to Tunte, and we must remember that when July and the heat arrive, these elements encourage us to be in Tunte and enjoy family-friendly, popular festivities, where many people join us and we share traditions, festivals, and typical products. These festivities, without a doubt, enhance the municipality," Pérez concluded.
The Tunte Festival is once again established as a space for reunion and collective celebration, marking the start of the municipality's summer festival calendar. The Festival Department encourages you to participate in each event and continue to make these festivities a highly anticipated event year after year.
