Fiestas de las Cruces y los Fuegos de Mayo en Los Realejos

Introduction and local significance

La Fiestas de las Cruces y los Fuegos de Mayo en Los Realejos (Festival of the Crosses and May Fires in Los Realejos) is celebrated in the Tenerife municipality of Los Realejos, in the autonomous community of the Canary Islands. This official edition runs from 24 April to 6 June 2026. The event stands out for its official recognition as a Festival of National Tourist Interest, attracting visitors interested in experiencing the island's most deeply rooted traditions during the month of May.

Historical origins and tradition

The festival was ordered to be celebrated by Bishop Don Diego de Muros, following the completion of the conquest of the Island of Tenerife in 1496. During the 19th century, after the disappearance of the Brotherhood of the Santa Veracruz, Sangre y Misericordia of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the festival was left in the hands of the people, evolving significantly. This 2026 edition marks the 50th anniversary of the joint denomination of the May Festivals of Los Realejos, resulting from the union of the celebrations of the Cross, San Isidro Labrador and Nuestra Señora de los Remedios. Traditional elements include offerings to the Cross through the bespoke decoration of streets, paths, chapels and private houses with lacework, arches of local fruits and altars. Likewise, tradition recounts the discovery of the Cross by a horse in the Barranco de la Raya, an ancient centuries-old legend rooted between Los Realejos and La Orotava. The fireworks display on the night of 3 May is considered the largest in the Canary Islands and one of the most important in Europe, the result of historical rivalry or friendly competition between the streets of Calle del Sol and Calle del Medio in the decoration and castles of fireworks. The rivalry between Calle del Sol and Calle del Medio has its historical origin in social class differences: landowners in Calle del Medio, and sharecroppers and small farmers in Calle del Sol. Parrandas (musical groups), dances and ventorrillos (traditional food stalls) take part during the celebrations.

Programme and main events

The official programme of the Fiestas de las Cruces y los Fuegos de Mayo en Los Realejos includes the following events organised by day:

• 24 April, 12:00 · Raising of the May flag at the Town Hall Doors.
• 24 April, 21:00 · Reading of the opening proclamation by the festive committees of Cruz de la Calle El Sol and Cruz de la Calle El Medio in Plaza Viera y Clavijo.
• 2 May · Festival of Crosses and Fires in Los Realejos.
• 3 May · Feast of the Holy Cross and fireworks display in Los Realejos.
• 9 May · Romera Mayor Gala (Gala for the main female romería pilgrim) in Los Realejos.
• 15 May · Romería Chica (small pilgrimage) and unveiling of a commemorative sculptural group at the intersection of La Gomera and El Hierro streets with Avenida de Canarias.
• 16 May · First day of Realejeros cantan a su pueblo (locals singing to their town) in Los Realejos.
• 17 May · Second day of Realejeros cantan a su pueblo in Los Realejos.
• 23 May · Baile de Magos (traditional folk dance) in Los Realejos.
• 30 May · Livestock Fair and Island Festival in Los Realejos.
• 31 May · Regional Romería (traditional pilgrimage) in Los Realejos.
• 1 June · Lunes de Remedios in Los Realejos.

Traditional festival food

During the days of celebration, activity in the municipality is accompanied by the opening of traditional ventorrillos (food and drink stalls). These establishments form part of the festive atmosphere alongside the participation of parrandas and dances. The culinary offerings available at these spots accompany attendees throughout the various days of the programme.

Visitor guide and where to stay

It is advisable to book accommodation in advance for the festival dates. Staying in the municipality itself or in nearby towns makes it easier to follow the scheduled night-time events. On the busiest days, it is preferable to use public transport or park outside the centre. Before you travel, check the official programme, as timetables and events are subject to change.