Día de Canarias got under way early at all schools in Lanzarote today.
In the secondary institute in Teguise there was a display and tasting of local foods and goods from each of the islands including a small stall from La Graciosa.
In the primary school in my small town of Tahiche there was a lovely traditional parade known as a Romería.
With hankies in hand we set off to watch and accompany the children on their procession through the main street of Tahiche.
They all looked so fantastic in typical Campesino dress; the girls in a colourful array of traditional skirts, blouses and hats and the boys in their somber fedoras, suits and waistcoats.
A few of the local farmers led donkey carts laden with their produce and water for the journey and the whole procession sang and danced along to the timple bands playing well known traditional songs such as “Sarandongo” and “Pobre Rafael”.
The circuit took us to a stop at the sociedad for a rest where we were once again entertained by the children with their traditional instruments.
After the return journey they went back to school for a party, with cakes and home-made treats contributed by all the families.
There is such a marvelous community spirit within Lanzarote’s towns and villages and it is kept alive by each generation’s enjoyment of the traditional party times.
These kids all had a great day at school today and one of my favourite sights was that of a group of small boys, looking like mini granddads, all holding hands, laughing and enjoying the walk!
Tracy is a staff writer for Lanzarote Information, you can read more about her here.
Post to Twitter