Yesterday, countless individuals from various ages and backgrounds revisited the traditions, customs, and trades that defined the municipality during the 1940s and 50s of the last century in the historic complex of Arona. This nostalgic journey was part of Arona in Tradiciones 2024, organised by the Tourist Board of the City Council, under the direction of Councillor Dácil León, in collaboration with the departments of Festivals and Historical Cultural Heritage. The event forms a part of the popular festivities program for the major celebrations of Cristo de la Salud and Virgen del Rosario.
The immersive exploration of the past of Arona and Tenerife was made possible by an extensive programme that included over forty concerts, performances, and parades showcasing music, dance, theatre, and literature across various stages, streets, corners, and historic buildings in Arona. This was further enhanced by fifteen exhibitions, a gastronomic fair, and a crafts market, complemented by shows, games, and children’s workshops.
Among the exceptional offerings and artists featured in this year’s line-up were concerts by Félix Morales and pianist Yasmina Gallardo. The event also showcased ballroom dancing performed by the Venxamar orchestra and the La Chaveña dance troupe. Theatre and opera were represented by soprano Sislena Caporroso, who portrayed María Callas’ visit to La Fonda, as well as a unique combination of music, wine, and poetry featuring Isabel González and Elsie Tavío. Additional acts included Brisas de Arona, Al Sur, Vinomios Folk, and the folklore groups I’Gara, Amigos de Punta Rasca, Herederos de Chasna, and Verodal. The Parranda Villera Comer y Cantar, Parranda del Ron, and Parranda Chasnera brought the festivities to a close in the Plaza del Cristo. Ernesto Rodríguez Abad, Ayla Rodríguez, and Mateo Felipe presented the musical-literary performance El Salinero, while students of Canarian dance from the Casino de Arona showcased a traditional theatre production. Moreover, local actors and residents reenacted traditional crafts and everyday scenes from the past, depicting various aspects of family life, such as hanging laundry or sewing, among many others.
EXHIBITIONS AND VISITS
The exhibitions played a crucial role in allowing attendees to experience the Arona of yesteryear. Household items, table linens and fabrics, porcelain, decorations, costume jewellery, period furniture, classic vehicles and motorcycles, traditional toys, and even bygone products and brands were showcased, regaining their significance in various exhibits. Furthermore, the opening of the Casa de la Bodega and Casa Baute (both historically significant) provided an additional dimension to the revival of Arona’s past.