Romerías in Tenerife

The Most Authentic Traditional Festivals of Canarian Culture.

3/5/20262 min read

Romerías in Tenerife are traditional popular festivals with both religious and celebratory origins, held in honor of a patron saint or the Virgin of a town or municipality.

They are one of the most authentic expressions of Canarian culture, blending devotion, folklore, gastronomy, and rural traditions.

What Happens During a Romería?

During a romería:

  • A procession takes place, where the image of the saint is carried on a decorated cart or on people’s shoulders.

  • Decorated carts (carretas), often pulled by oxen, participate in the parade.

  • People wear traditional Canarian clothing.

  • There is live folk music with parrandas, timples, and traditional dances.

  • Locals share traditional food and local wine, such as papas arrugadas, carne fiesta, gofio, and Canarian cheese.

Although romerías originated as religious pilgrimages, today they are also vibrant social celebrations where locals and visitors come together.

The Most Recommended Romerías in Tenerife (Month by Month – 2026)

🌿 January

Romería de San Antonio Abad – Los Realejos

One of the first major romerías of the year. It has strong agricultural traditions, with animals being blessed and a very local atmosphere.

Romería de San Sebastián – Adeje

A unique celebration linked to the sea and the historic traditions of southern Tenerife.

🌸 February

Festivity of the Virgin of Candelaria – Candelaria

Not a typical cart romería, but one of the most important religious celebrations in the Canary Islands, filled with devotion and tradition.

🌼 March

Romería de San José – Barranco Hondo (Candelaria)

A smaller and more authentic romería, perfect if you prefer something less crowded and more local.

🌺 April

Romería de San Marcos – Tegueste

Very traditional and deeply agricultural. Expect beautifully decorated carts, local northern wines, and a strong rural identity.

🌷 May (The Peak Month for Romerías)

Romería de San Isidro Labrador – Los Realejos

One of the most famous romerías in Tenerife, very colorful and highly participatory.

Romería de San Isidro – Granadilla de Abona

A great celebration in the south of the island, mixing tradition with a lively festive atmosphere.

🌞 June

Romería of La Orotava – La Orotava

Probably the most elegant and spectacular romería in northern Tenerife, part of the famous Corpus Christi celebrations.

Romería of Tacoronte – Tacoronte

Very lively and well known for the excellent local wine of the region.

☀️ July (The Biggest Romerías)

Romería de San Benito Abad – San Cristóbal de La Laguna

The largest and most iconic romería in Tenerife, officially declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest.

Romería Chica – Garachico

Smaller than San Benito but with enormous historical charm.

🌊 August

Romería of La Esperanza – El Rosario

Very authentic and extremely popular among locals, with a strong rural atmosphere.

Romería de San Roque – Garachico

A historic celebration with deep local roots.

🍂 October

Romería of Adeje – Adeje

One of the most important autumn romerías in southern Tenerife.

Romería of La Vega – Icod de los Vinos

Traditional celebration in one of Tenerife’s wine-producing areas.

🍁 November

Baile de Magos de San Diego – San Cristóbal de La Laguna

Not a daytime romería, but one of the most beautiful traditional folk celebrations of the year.

If You Could Only Choose 5 Romerías in Tenerife

If you only have time to attend a few, these are the five must-see romerías:

  1. San Benito – La Laguna (July)

  2. La Orotava Romería (June)

  3. San Isidro – Los Realejos (May)

  4. La Esperanza – El Rosario (August)

  5. San Marcos – Tegueste (April)

Is It Worth Attending a Romería?

Absolutely.

If you want to experience Tenerife like a local rather than just a tourist, attending a romería is one of the most authentic, joyful, and cultural experiences you can have on the island.

Music, traditional food, local wine, colorful clothing, and centuries-old traditions all come together to create an unforgettable celebration of Canarian identity.

Check out the best activities you can do in Tenerife here.