DE 
EN 
ES Where joy for life and tradition go hand in hand
La Palma, the green pearl of the Canary Islands, is an island that loves to celebrate – with passion, music, and heart. Hardly a month goes by without the sound of drums, the glow of colorful costumes, or dances filling the streets. For visitors, it’s a wonderful opportunity to feel the soul of the island: authentic, warm, and full of life.
Whether you find yourself standing in a white cloud of talcum powder at the Carnival in Santa Cruz, breathing in the scent of blooming almond trees in Puntagorda, or facing the fire of “El Diablo” at night – La Palma’s festivals tell stories of history, community, and pure joy of life.
Here we present the most popular and traditional celebrations so your holiday becomes truly unforgettable.
A Carnival like no other: Los Indianos in Santa Cruz de La Palma (Carnival Monday)
Every year on Carnival Monday, Santa Cruz de La Palma transforms into a sea of white. Men in linen suits and straw hats, women in lace dresses and carrying parasols – everyone dresses in white, dances, laughs, and fills the city with clouds of fine talcum powder.
Los Indianos is more than just a carnival – it tells the story of the Palmeros who emigrated to Cuba in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Many earned their fortune there and returned years later to the island as wealthy men and women. They brought back clothing, music, dances, and the Caribbean way of life – and their return was celebrated with exuberant joy by the townspeople.
Today, thousands dress up as Cubans and throw talcum powder at each other, recalling the bright white fashion of the Caribbean. The festival symbolizes return, success, joy, and community – connecting the people of La Palma with their own history.
The vibrant heart of the carnival beats to the rhythm of drums, Caribbean sounds, and laughter floating through the air. More than 70,000 people celebrate each year – locals, travelers, generations united in one joyful day.
When the island blooms: The Almond blossom Festival in Puntagorda (End of January)
When, in January, the mountain villages of Puntagorda and Garafía transform into a delicate pink sea of blossoms, one of the island’s most poetic festivals begins: the Fiesta del Almendro en Flor. Among orchards and almond groves, people celebrate the awakening of nature with music, dance, and sweets made from almonds and honey.
The Almond Blossom Festival in Puntagorda is deeply rooted in the island’s nature and agriculture. For centuries, people have celebrated the almond harvest – a particularly precious gift in the rugged mountain landscape. The blossoming of the almond trees symbolizes fertility, renewal, and the hope for a plentiful harvest.
This festival is like a gentle prelude to the new year – a symbol of new beginnings and hope. Visitors not only enjoy the spectacle of nature but also traditional crafts, local wines, and the first dances that herald the approaching carnival season.
San Antonio del Monte – A festival of earth, animals, and music (around June 13)
In the north, in Garafía, the soul of the island is still deeply rooted in the earth. Here, the people of La Palma celebrate one of the island’s most traditional folk festivals in honor of San Antonio del Monte.
The Fiesta de San Antonio del Monte originated from the people’s desire to bless their animals and ask for protection from illness and misfortune. Saint Anthony is considered the patron saint of animals, and locals would bring their herds, goats, and cows to receive his blessing.
Over the centuries, the festival evolved into a gathering for the village community: music, dance, handicrafts, and local delicacies became integral parts of the celebration. Today, the fiesta stands for tradition, community, and joy of life – a genuine expression of island culture where visitors can experience the authentic spirit of La Palma: sincere, heartfelt, and full of life.
Corpus Christi in Villa de Mazo – Works of art made of flowers and moss (mid-June)
When summer approaches, Villa de Mazo transforms into an open-air art gallery.
The Corpus Christi festival has its origins in the Catholic tradition of honoring the body of Christ. On La Palma, local communities have turned this celebration into a unique expression of folk art: residents create arches, carpets, and miniature altars from flowers, leaves, moss, and colored sand. Weeks of preparation go into these ephemeral masterpieces, which shimmer in the sunlight and fill the air with the scent of summer.
These works of art reflect not only spirituality but also the Palmeros’ love for nature and community. Visitors can experience how faith, aesthetics, and local craftsmanship blend together in harmony.
El Diablo of Tijarafe – When the Devil dances (September 8)
On the night of September 7th to 8th, the small mountain village of Tijarafe becomes the stage for a spectacular fire show. The “Diablo,” a huge spark-spitting figure, dances through the crowd, accompanied by drums, fireworks, and cheers.
The origins of this festival lie in ancient island traditions: it began as a symbolic representation of the struggle between good and evil, with the devil embodying the forces of darkness. The fire was originally meant to drive the devil away and protect the villagers from harm. Over the centuries, this solemn ritual evolved into a colorful, breathtaking folk festival that now unites mysticism, tradition, and pure joy of life.
Those who have witnessed it never forget the moment when the sky over Tijarafe bursts into flames and the laughter of the people merges with the crackling of fire. The festival is not only an impressive spectacle but also a vivid expression of the deep-rooted culture and community spirit of the Palmeros.
The Bajada de la Virgen de las Nieves – The festival of all festivals (every five years, July)
Every five years, La Palma turns upside down (next in 2025). The Bajada de la Virgen de las Nieves is more than just a religious festival – it is a powerful expression of unity and devotion.
Its origins date back to the 16th century, when the statue of the island’s patron saint was carried from her mountain sanctuary down to Santa Cruz to unite the community and ask for protection over the island.
Music, dance, theater, fireworks, and a city in a state of joyful chaos: for two weeks, history and the present merge into one grand celebration of emotion. The legendary Dance of the Dwarfs (Danza de los Enanos) is the absolute highlight – small, dancing figures that drive the crowds into pure exhilaration.
Colors, music, and faith: Las Cruces & Los Caballos Fufos (early May & September)
The tradition of Las Cruces is centuries old and stems from the veneration of the cross. In May, the residents of Santa Cruz, Breña Alta, and Breña Baja decorate their crosses with flowers, fabrics, jewelry, and keepsakes. This Festival of the Crosses (Las Cruces) brings color and poetry to the streets – a tribute to life, love, and community.
In September, the festivities continue joyfully in Tazacorte: during Los Caballos Fufos, painted horse figures made of paper and bamboo dance through the streets – led by a giraffe and accompanied by music and cheers. It’s a humorous, lively spectacle that delights children and adults alike every year.
A Festival for the senses – San Martín (November 11)
As the days grow shorter, the scent of roasted chestnuts drifts across the island. On the feast day of San Martín, many Palmeros open their wine cellars and taste the young wine of the year. Traditional dishes, singing, and spontaneous street celebrations accompany the occasion.
This autumn festival reveals a quieter, more intimate side of the island – perfect for travelers who want to experience La Palma beyond the hustle and bustle.
Why you should experience at least one festival on La Palma
La Palma’s festivals are not shows for tourists – they are living culture. Those who take part become part of a community where music, dance, and togetherness form the heartbeat of the island. Between mountains, sea, and volcanoes, people here celebrate not just life itself, but the joy of being together.
For every visitor, it’s a one-of-a-kind experience not to be missed. Whether it’s your first time on La Palma or you already know the island – the colors, sounds, scents, and emotions of a festival let you experience it in a way no guidebook ever could. These are moments that will stay with you long after you return home.
The perfect accommodation for your time on La Palma
After a day filled with color, music, and new impressions, there’s nothing better than ending the evening in your own little oasis. Perhaps with a glass of local wine on the terrace as the sun sets behind the mountains – or by the pool, listening to the soft sound of the sea.
Our handpicked holiday homes, fincas, and apartments on La Palma are located in the island’s most beautiful regions – near the vibrant capital Santa Cruz, around El Paso in the island’s heart, or in idyllic mountain villages where time seems to stand still.
Whether you seek the lively atmosphere of a festival or prefer to unwind after an eventful day – here you’ll find the perfect retreat for your very own island moment.
By rental car to the island’s most beautiful festivals
La Palma’s festivals are as diverse as the island itself – and many take place in small villages that can only be reached by car. Having your own rental car gives you freedom: you can spontaneously decide to visit the market in Puntagorda in the morning, walk among the almond blossoms at midday, or watch the fireworks in Tijarafe at night.
We make it easy for you: your rental car will be ready for you directly at the airport – with no excess fee, a second driver included, and free cancellation up to 48 hours before arrival. This way, your holiday remains as spontaneous and carefree as the island’s festivals themselves.
Ready to plan your trip?
Then now is the perfect moment to start planning!
Our team knows La Palma and its most beautiful places from personal experience – and will help you find the perfect accommodation tailored to your wishes. Whether you want to dance with the Indianos, marvel at the Bajada, or simply gaze at the starry sky above the volcanoes – we’ll make sure you feel right at home on La Palma.
Let our team of experts advise you – we’ll guide you every step of the way to your unforgettable La Palma holiday!
Email:
Phone: +34 675 400 700
