Once again, the central streets of La Laguna were bustling with thousands of individuals who gathered to partake in a new edition of La Noche en Blanco, attracting an estimated 60,000 attendees according to the latest figures provided by the Local Police using CNP drones. This day of leisure and culture is aimed at revitalising commerce in the city, marking the commencement of the Christmas festivities, enhanced by the newly illuminated festive lights.
The mayor of La Laguna, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, along with the Councilor for Commerce, Estefanía Díaz, inaugurated this celebratory day at 11:00 a.m., joined by popular television personalities Panchita and Servando, who added a humorous touch as they zipped down the installed zip line on Nava y Grimón street, one of the major attractions this year.
The opening ceremony was also attended by the Councilor for Commerce, Kristen Martín, alongside numerous municipal officials and representatives from the commercial sector. “It is a magical day, featuring a myriad of activities across more than 30 locations throughout the city, catering to all ages,” the local council member remarked.
In an initial assessment conducted in the early afternoon, the city council praised the steady flow of attendees in various areas of the historic centre, the increase in sales, and the complete absence of incidents during the morning. This event brought together numerous families with children, couples, and elderly attendees.
The mayor noted that, according to data from Cecopal, “we are witnessing figures that surpass 25,000 individuals engaging in various activities across the city, which positively influences trade.” He emphasised notable statistics such as “a doubling of purchases on Heraclio Sánchez Street, and at several locations in the city centre,” which has led to “retailers expressing their satisfaction,” he added.
Furthermore, the Councilor for Commerce indicated that the lack of incidents “is the best news” and pointed out that “the variety of activities in the streets neighbouring the historic centre has been effective in preventing large crowds.” Specifically, this year saw the Camino Largo host a market featuring local brands and La Constitución Park hosting various workshops for children.
As in previous editions, the children were the stars of the morning at La Noche en Blanco, with a plethora of activities and workshops for families to enjoy, including inflatables, various sports, puppetry, street theatre, and the ‘City of Stories’ at IES Canarias Cabrera Pinto, among others.
Theatre and music
The afternoon transitioned into an evening aimed at a more adult audience, with one of the highlight performances being the Crystal Palace show by the French company Trans Express, which transformed the Plaza del Cristo into a grand hall reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles.
Street theatre was a significant feature of the night, highlighted by parades through the town by the French company Remue Ménage, and performances by La Finestra Nou Circ, Tiritirantes, La Tal, as well as the comedic acts of Abubukaka.
In terms of music, standout performances included the Galician group Tanxugueiras at Torre de la Concepción square, where Totó Noriega also showcased his rendition of Chan Chan, alongside Zenet on his farewell tour. La Pegatina closed the festivities in the parking lot of the old market, while music resonated in several other locations such as the Plazas de la Junta Suprema, Víctor Zurita, and Hermano Ramón, among others.
Gastronomy was also featured prominently in Plaza Antonio Mederos Sosa with Chocoland, a dedicated area for sweet enthusiasts, where attendees savoured a variety of chocolates and confections.
Moreover, there was a significant focus on inclusion, with workshops available from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Nava y Grimón Street, as well as the establishment of the Orange Point in La Concepción Plaza, enabling individuals with physical, sensory, motor disabilities or intellectual challenges to enjoy the day on an equal footing. Additionally, the event featured two Violet Points.