Every year, La Caleta reconnects with its roots by reviving Canarian tradition and folklore through its traditional festivities. Two key moments mark the calendar —January and August— when ancestral dances that tell the story of the village and religious processions honouring its patron saints return to showcase the spirit and identity of this coastal enclave.
In this article, we invite you to discover the two most emblematic traditions of La Caleta: the festivities in honour of Saint Sebastian and Our Lady of Carmen.
Festivities in honour of Saint Sebastian
Saint Sebastian, co-patron saint of the municipality of Adeje, is celebrated on 20 January, one of the days that brings the largest crowds to the village of La Caleta.
The main day of the festivities begins early in the morning with a mass, after which the image of the saint leaves the church and heads towards the sea, led by a procession of horse riders. Mounted on their horses, they amaze onlookers year after year with their skill as they guide the animals into the water.
This is followed by a traditional paseo romero, accompanied by oxen, cows, goats, sheep, camels and shepherd dogs. The procession ends in San Sebastián Square, where the parish priest blesses the animals.
Music and traditional dances, food stalls, folk groups, Canarian handcrafted products, and local food and wines are an essential part of the celebration, creating a lively atmosphere enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
Festivities in honour of Our Lady of Carmen
At the beginning of August, La Caleta celebrates its summer festival in honour of Our Lady of Carmen. The entire coastal community comes together to prepare the maritime procession of the Virgin’s image, following a route through several streets before reaching the sea, watched by residents and visitors alike.
Alongside this, the traditional Romería Barquera also takes place, where fishermen dressed in traditional attire enjoy paella, Canarian dishes and folk dancing in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.
We recommend checking your calendar, because if your holiday coincides with these dates… you really shouldn’t miss the chance to experience these traditions up close.
