Canarian Traditions: Festivals, Flavours and Local Life on Gran Canaria

Some travel destinations don’t just catch the eye; they touch the soul. Gran Canaria is one of them. To truly get to know this island, you’ll need to look beyond the beaches and the gentle climate. What you’ll find is a treasure trove of traditions, delicious flavours, and vibrant local customs – all waiting to be discovered. 

At Seaside Palm Beach, we invite you to immerse yourself in this colourful world of music, taste and living heritage. It’s our tribute to the island’s roots and to the true luxury that Gran Canaria has to offer.  

The Most Important Folk Festivals on Gran Canaria 

Gran Canaria celebrates its roots with numerous festivals and romerías, still embraced with great passion to this day. If you have the chance to experience one, you’re in for a truly authentic glimpse into the island’s vibrant culture. 

Almond blossom festival (Tejeda) 

Between January and February, when the almond trees blossom in pink and white, the picturesque mountain village of Tejeda transforms into a stage for traditional music, dances, and local delicacies.  

St. John’s Festival 

When the night sky over Gran Canaria lights up with fireworks on St. John’s Eve and people dive into the sea at midnight, there’s a sense of magic in the air. Whether you're on Las Canteras beach or in Playa del Inglés, the celebration on 23rd June is a ritual of cleansing and new beginnings. 

Fishermen’s Festival Virgen del Carmen (Mogán and Arguineguín)  

In July, the coastal towns of Puerto de Mogán and Arguineguín honour the Virgen del Carmen, the patron saint of fishermen and sailors. The highlight of the celebrations are the heartfelt processions, where the statue of the Virgin is carried from the church to the harbour and then taken out to sea by boats.  

Fiesta de la Rama (Agaete) 

In a centuries-old ritual, a procession moves from the Tamadaba pine forest down to the sea, with participants carrying branches in their hands, accompanied by drums and music – a symbolic plea for rain that has its roots in the culture of the island’s indigenous people. Since 1972, the celebration has been officially recognised as a “Festival of International Tourist Interest”. 

San Lorenzo Fireworks (Las Palmas) 

In August, the San Lorenzo neighbourhood in Las Palmas transforms into a vibrant sea of lights. One of the most spectacular fireworks displays on the island draws thousands of spectators every year.  

Water Festival La Traída del Agua (Telde) 

In the first weeks of August, the Lomo Magullo neighbourhood in Telde celebrates “Traída del Agua”, a festival that recalls the old tradition of collecting water from irrigation channels. Armed with buckets and hoses, locals dive into a joyful water fight under the Gran Canarian sun. 

Fishermen’s Festival Vará del Pescao (Arinaga) 

On the last Friday of August, the coastal town of Arinaga in the municipality of Agüimes celebrates “Vará del Pescao”, a festival held in honour of the local fishing tradition. The procession moves along the seafront promenade, accompanied by music, a lively atmosphere and the tempting scent of freshly grilled sardines being cooked right on the boats. 

Pilgrimage Festival Fiesta del Pino (Teror) 

During the Fiesta del Pino, the festival in honour of Gran Canaria’s patron saint, thousands of pilgrims make their way to the town of Teror. On the journey to the basilica, they bring sacrifices, sing, dance and express their deep connection to tradition. 

Shortly afterwards comes the grand romería, where people from across Gran Canaria and the neighbouring islands come together to celebrate. 

Lagoon Festival Fiesta del Charco (La Aldea) 

On September 11th, La Aldea de San Nicolás celebrates one of the island’s oldest traditions. As soon as the signal is given, hundreds of people leap into the Charco La Marciega lagoon to catch fish with their bare hands. It’s a tribute to the fishing methods of the island’s indigenous people, who once used plant juices like tabaiba to stun the fish and make them easier to catch.  

Folk Festival Romería de los Labradores (Santa Lucía de Tirajana) 

Dressed in traditional costume, participants parade through the town with brightly decorated carts, offering local gifts to the Virgin of the Rosary and raising a toast with the traditional “Mejunje” – a fragrant mix of rum, honey and herbs. 

Traditional Dishes from Gran Canaria You Shouldn’t Miss 

Canarian cuisine combines traditional ingredients with long-standing cooking methods, reflecting the rich mix of cultures that have shaped the archipelago. From the island’s indigenous people to Spanish colonisers, and later African, European and Latin American influences – all have come together over time to form a truly unique culinary identity.    

Papas arrugadas with Mojo 

An absolute classic, now considered a culinary icon of the Canary Islands: potatoes cooked in sea salt, served with red or green mojo sauce. 

Gofio Escaldado 

A dish with roots in the traditions of the ancient Canarians. Gofio (toasted grain flour) is mixed with broth and onions to create a hearty, nourishing paste. Simple, filling, and cherished across generations. 

Roast Pork Leg (Pata Asada) 

Slow-roasted in the oven until perfectly crisp on the outside. Thinly sliced and traditionally served with fresh bread and a glass of wine – it’s a tapa that couldn’t be more authentically Canarian. 

Ropa vieja 

A traditional leftover dish that became a beloved classic. This hearty stew is made with meat or fish, chickpeas and potatoes. 

Watercress Stew (Potaje de Berros) 

A perfect example of how a humble dish can become something truly special. Its preparation varies from region to region, showcasing the rich diversity of Canarian cuisine. 

Of course, these dishes are just a small taste of what’s waiting for you. Gran Canaria offers countless more authentic flavours just waiting to be discovered. 

Typical drinks on Gran Canaria 

On Gran Canaria, every sip tells a story. These traditional drinks are part of everyday life and even more so when it comes to local celebrations. 

Tropical and Dorada Beer 

Two light beers brewed on Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Best enjoyed ice-cold, with a view of the sea. 

Clipper Fresa 

A bright red, sweet strawberry soda that brings back childhood memories – and one you’ll only find in the Canary Islands. A true classic at family gatherings, almost always paired with a bread roll filled with chorizo sausage from Teror. 

Appletiser 

This sparkling apple drink is a regular feature on many drinks menus. Originally from South Africa, Appletiser has also been produced in the Canary Islands since the 1980s. 

Ron Miel 

This sweet honey rum, produced since 1884 at the historic rum distillery in Arucas, is one of the island’s most popular souvenirs. Whether sipped neat as a post-dinner digestif or mixed into a long drink, Ron Miel charms with its smooth, aromatic flavour. A beloved staple of Canarian drinking culture. 

Blat Vodka 

One of the purest vodkas in the world comes from Ingenio, Gran Canaria. Made from French wheat and refined with rainwater filtered through volcanic rock, it’s not only exceptionally mild in taste but also gluten-free. 

Wines from Gran Canaria 

Here, vines grow in volcanic soil, nurtured by sunshine and trade winds. The result: Fresh, fruity white wines, bold reds, and aromatic Malvasías. Every sip reflects the island’s unique origin and character. 

Canarian Cocktails at Palm Beach 

Fancy experiencing Gran Canaria in a glass? Let our bartenders treat you to expertly crafted cocktails made with regional ingredients and a touch of island flair. 

Canary Islands Day at the Seaside Palm Beach

30th May is much more than just a date in the calendar – it’s a celebration of Canarian identity, culture and joie de vivre. During this time, the island comes alive with tradition: festive, vibrant and deeply rooted in its heritage. At Seaside Palm Beach, we warmly invite you to experience this special occasion with us. Enjoy an authentic programme featuring live Canarian folk music, expertly crafted cocktails made with regional ingredients, and our gourmet cuisine, focused on organic and locally sourced products. It’s a wonderful opportunity to feel the spirit of the Canary Islands in an exclusive setting – and to celebrate with us what makes Gran Canaria truly unique.