Celebrating San Antonio de Padua in Moya (June 14-16)
Moya, a charming town nestled in the northern part of Gran Canaria, is set to celebrate its beloved traditional festivities in honor of San Antonio de Padua. This vibrant event is celebrated in June and offers a delightful array of activities that cater to all tastes and ages. If you’re looking for a genuine cultural experience, Moya’s celebrations are not to be missed!
The Grand Kickoff – Friday
The festivities kicked off on Friday, June 14th, with a heartwarming event featuring the local schoolchildren. Dressed in traditional Canarian attire, these young participants paraded through the streets of Moya, accompanied by the folkloric group Agrupación Folclórica Guadalupe and ACEDC Dragos y Laurel. This display of cultural pride set the tone for the weekend’s main events.
A Cultural Extravaganza
Friday evening was a treat for cultural enthusiasts. The renowned Agrupación Folclórica Os Salgueiriños from Noia, A Coruña, performed at the Casa de la Cultura at 6:30 PM, showcasing traditional Galician music and dance. This was followed by the spectacular show “Mi Conciencia” at 8:30 PM in the Municipal Amphitheater of Pico Lomito, featuring performances by Pedro Manuel Afonso, Maestro Florido, and the musical group Cumbres y Costas. The night concluded with a lively performance by The Papas and the Mojo in Plaza del Árbol Redondo.
The Highlight: Romería and Traditional Dance – Saturday
The highlight of the weekend is undoubtedly the Romería, a traditional procession that begins at 5:30 PM on Saturday, June 15th. Locals from various neighborhoods will don their traditional attire and join the festivities, accompanied by the vibrant music of the group Bailarines y Tocadores del Norte from the island of El Hierro. The Romería will culminate in the Baile de Taifas, a traditional dance event held at the portico of Nuestra Señora de Candelaria. Performances by Agrupación Folclórica Guadalupe, Parranda del Cura, Parranda del Pajullo, and Parranda La Polvajera will keep the spirit alive into the night.
Sunday: A Feast for the Senses
The celebrations continue on Sunday, starting at 9:00 AM with the XXXI Feria de Degustación de Quesos y Productos Locales (Cheese and Local Products Tasting Fair) in Plaza Tomás Morales. Simultaneously, the XX edition of the Degustación de Productos de la Villa de Moya, led by Aridane Rivero, will offer a feast of local flavors.
At noon, the Solemnity of San Antonio de Padua will be marked by a special tribute from the group Bailarines y Tocadores de El Norte, followed by a solemn mass led by Father Roberto Rivero. The event will conclude with a procession through the town, featuring the revered image of San Antonio de Padua.
Closing with Laughter
As the weekend draws to a close, laughter will fill the air with a comedy show by Kike Pérez at 8:00 PM in the Municipal Amphitheater of Parque Pico Lomito. The festivities will officially conclude on Monday with a communal gathering, highlighted by the traditional and popular Sancocho Canario at La Josefa.
A Month of Joy and Tradition
La Villa de Moya’s month-long celebration in honor of San Antonio de Padua is a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit. From traditional processions and dances to culinary delights and heartfelt tributes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, this festival promises to provide a memorable and enriching experience. So mark your calendars and join the festivities in Moya for an authentic taste of Gran Canarian culture!
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, details of events and activities may be subject to change. We recommend checking with official sources or event organizers for the most current information. Participation in events is at your own discretion, and we are not responsible for any changes, cancellations, or other issues that may arise.
