The 2024 Grape Harvest Festival, part of the festivities in honour of the Santísimo Cristo de los Dolores, will, for the first time, take place without candidates for queen. Consequently, this year there will be no election gala; instead, the event will focus on showcasing the significance of the wine industry in Tacoronte and the Acentejo region.
This announcement was made yesterday by the mayor, Sandra Izquierdo, during the launch of the festive programme, which commenced on Sunday and will run throughout September, featuring over a hundred cultural, sporting, and religious activities designed for all family members.
The festivities will officially commence this Sunday with the proclamation read by the Hermanos López Family, followed by an extraordinary concert from the Santa Cecilia Musical Group Band. The day will also feature the XXVII Tasting of Turrón, Cheese, and Wine from the city, with participation from local turron makers and winemakers from the DO Tacoronte Acentejo.
The primary location for the events will be Plaza del Cristo, which this year returns to its original layout, recreating two significant icons from the original site: the Doña Nena kiosk and the fountain. The design, crafted by artist Juan Fajardo, intends to enhance the historical value of both the Sanctuary and the House of Culture.
The festival details were shared by the Councillor for Festivals and Citizen Participation, Noemí García, who mentioned that one of this year’s novelties is El Tacorontazo, a concert scheduled for Friday the 20th at 11:00 p.m. This concert will feature performances by Lucrecia, King África, Pepe Benavente, the K-narias, and DJ Marco González.
Other musical highlights will include artists such as Jadel, El Morocho and his band, Helena Bianco and Los Mismos, Ni un Pelo de Tonto, Los Cantadores, Shaila Dúrcal, and DJs Renzzo El Selector and Yera Waque.
Noteworthy performances include those by Seguridad Social and Amistades Peligrosas on Friday the 27th during Noche Ochentera, the Unidos por las Raíces festival in Guarache, and the 25th Anniversary Concert of the Municipal Music School.
Regarding religious events, the revered image of the Santísimo Cristo de los Dolores de Tacoronte will be paraded on September 21, 22, 28, and 29. The latter date coincides with the well-known Octava del Cristo, a day of great attendance featuring the transfer of the banner followed by a religious service. Additionally, the XXXVIII Crafts Fair is planned in the vicinity of the Town Hall, showcasing the work of approximately 60 artisans. Sandra Izquierdo and Noemí García were joined by Vanessa Luis Ravelo, the official overseeing Citizen Security and Seniors, who elaborated on the security measures which include members of the Local Police, Civil Guard, and Civil Protection, as well as staff from the Canary Islands Health Service (SCS).
Under this plan, the Advanced Command Post will be situated within the Local Police premises, equipped with the necessary materials and personnel to respond effectively and ensure the smooth running of all events. Furthermore, ambulances from the SCS will be present, with enhanced attention at the health centre.
The area surrounding the Town Hall will be designated as a secure zone, and a Punto Violeta will also be established in that vicinity, staffed by professionals who will provide information, advice, and support to victims of gender violence.
