La Rama Festival 2024 in Agaete: Everything You Need to Know
This weekend, one of the most exciting festivals of the year in Gran Canaria is happening: La Rama in Agaete. The main event, called the Bajada, will be on Sunday, August 4th. But the fun starts on Friday with many activities for all ages, leading up to the expected 40,000 people for Sunday’s big event.
Origins and Historical Significance
La Rama started with the ancient Guanche people, who used rituals to ask their gods for rain and good harvests. When the Spanish conquerors came, they added Christian traditions to the festival. This mix of old and new customs gave La Rama its unique character. The name “La Rama” means “The Branch” in Spanish. Today, it is a key part of the island’s culture, showing the blend of native heritage and the Christian beliefs introduced by the Spanish.
Program La Rama in Agaete 2024
Friday, August 2nd
8:00 AM – Starting at Plaza de La Constitución
- Children’s Hike
La Rama includes fun for kids too. A children’s hike will start from Plaza de La Constitución, letting kids explore the beautiful areas around the town.
8:00 PM – Plaza de La Constitución
- Children’s Parade
In the evening, there will be a Children’s Parade with lanterns lighting up the streets. The Guiniguada Band will play music, and children will join in, making it a fun time for everyone.
10:00 PM – Plaza de La Constitución
- Urban Night
The night will end with a party featuring performances by G Louis and Bordón, Tutto Durán, and DJ Sammyto, setting the stage for more fun on Saturday.
Saturday, August 3rd
11:30 PM – Plaza de La Constitución
- Street Party
On Saturday night, there will be a big street party with music by Estrella Latina, Ritmo Bakano, and Leyenda Joven. This party will keep everyone dancing and excited for Sunday.
In 2023, we arrived at Puerto de Las Nieves at 6 pm, just as the procession with people bringing ramas from the town was ending. It was a typical Spanish street party—very nice but also very crowded, though quite relaxed and super safe.
At 10 pm, we headed up to the town for La Retreta with “La Banda de Agaete” and many others. We didn’t return to Las Palmas de GC too late, fearing we might miss the last bus due to the crowds, but the party continued all night. Next year, I would go a bit earlier to catch the ramas celebration and be fully prepared for an all-day fiesta!
Sunday, August 4th
5:00 AM – In front of the Town Hall
- La Diana
Early in the morning, a firework will signal the start of the most important day. Some people will stay up all night from the party, while others will wake up early to join in. The Clandestina and Agaete bands will play music to start the day.
10:00 AM – Side of the Parish of La Concepción
- Bajada de La Rama
The Bajada de La Rama is the highlight of the weekend. Many people will gather to offer branches of pine, heather, eucalyptus, laurel, and mimosa to Our Lady of the Snows. The parade will be full of emotions, dances, and songs, with music from the Clandestina, Agaete, and Guiniguada bands.
10:00 PM – Side of the Parish of La Concepción
- The Retreta
The Retreta marks the end of La Rama but is still a happy event, usually enjoyed by families. The Guiniguada band will play music until the fireworks show at 1:00 AM at La Villa’s central square. The colorful fireworks will light up the night, saying goodbye to the festival.
Join the thousands of people this weekend to experience La Rama in Agaete, a fun and cultural event that everyone can enjoy.
In recent years, people have worked hard to keep the cultural heritage of La Rama alive. Local authorities and cultural organizations work together to make sure the festival stays strong. They aim to preserve the Canarian traditions so future generations can enjoy and cherish them.
Extra Buses to Get to Agaete from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
For the festival, there are extra buses on lines 102, 103, and 130 (to and from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria). You can buy your ticket on the bus using cash (please bring small notes) or a card.
Please note that event dates and details may be subject to change. It’s recommended to check with local sources closer to the dates or visit official tourism websites for the most up-to-date information.
