Yesterday evening, La Pandorga and the Caballitos de Fuego paraded through the main avenues of La Laguna, bringing vibrancy and cultural heritage to the festivities held in honour of the Christ of La Laguna. This event was organised by the Scout group Aguere 70, in collaboration with the Historic Centre Residents’ Association and the local council.
The procession featured the customary fire horses crafted from cane and paper, alongside giant figures, large heads, musical bands, and fanfares, drawing in numerous participants who revelled in the celebration as it made its way through the central streets. The procession commenced at approximately 7:15 p.m. from Plaza de La Concepción and concluded at Plaza del Cristo, paving the way for the Night of Traditions and the attempt to set the Guinness record for the largest Tajaraste.
The origins of the Pandorga and Fire Horses procession can be traced back to equestrian decorations used during medieval commemorations. Although this celebratory ritual faded away during the mid-20th century due to the hazards associated with fire displays, similar events now take place across various locations in the Canary Islands, as well as in some towns in Spain and throughout Latin America, particularly in Mexico and Venezuela.
Highlight of the celebrations
The main celebrations dedicated to the Christ of La Laguna reach their zenith today. The day’s events will commence at 07:00 with the joyous ringing of bells, followed at 10:15 by the civic-military procession from the town hall to the cathedral. The morning will then proceed with the return procession of the image from the cathedral back to its royal sanctuary. In the afternoon, the atrium of this temple will host, at 19:00, a field mass, which will be followed by another procession of the Christ through the principal streets of La Laguna, ultimately returning to the square for the traditional Fuegos del Risco.
The Pandorga and the Firehorses fill the town of La Orotava with colour. Sergio Méndez
The Pandorga and the Firehorses fill the town of La Orotava with colour. Sergio Méndez
The Pandorga and the Firehorses fill the town of La Orotava with colour. Sergio Méndez
The Pandorga and the Firehorses fill the town of La Orotava with colour. Sergio Méndez