La Peña Brings Tradition Back to Fuerteventura
From September 18 to 21, a series of religious, cultural and sporting events will take place.
Fuerteventura is once again celebrating its annual festivities in honor of Our Lady of La Peña, the island’s patron saint. The Island Council and the Betancuría City Hall officially unveiled the program, which blends devotion, gastronomy and tradition for residents and visitors alike.
“September arrives with one of the most anticipated celebrations for those of us who live on the island,” said Lola García, President of the Island Council. “The festivities of our patron saint embody the essence of Fuerteventura: tradition, culture and community.”
García highlighted that the diverse agenda is designed for all ages, aiming “to guide every path on the island toward the Church of Our Lady of La Peña.” She also praised the collaborative work of the Council’s Culture Department, the Betancuría municipality and other local bodies that make the events possible.
“We are presenting a series of gatherings around our patron, with an intensive program that includes children’s activities, music, sport, gastronomy, traditional pilgrimages and folk meetings, as well as heritage‑related initiatives,” explained Rayco León, Council’s Minister of Culture.
“Everything is ready for the town to welcome visitors with open arms, ensuring the celebrations reflect the tranquility that characterizes La Peña and the quality contributed by all island municipalities,” added Enrique Cerdeña, Mayor of Betancuría.
Representing the Diocese of the Canary Islands, Aday García noted, “From the sanctuary’s rectorate we have prepared the religious ceremonies to highlight the importance of this place and the devotion of Fuerteventura to the Virgin of La Peña.”
During the opening ceremony, Inma de Armas, the year’s official announcer, expressed her honor and promised, “I will offer a perspective on the history that unites the entire island, from north to south and east to west.”
2025 La Peña Festival Program
September 13‑14 (10:00 – 17:00) – VIII Edition of the Betancuría Livestock Fair (MUGABE)
- Traditional livestock exhibition
- Artisan market, gastronomic showcase, and live demonstrations
Thursday, September 18 – 20:30 – Opening Proclamation by Inmaculada de Armas, followed by a musical performance that kicks off the popular festivities.
Friday, September 19 – 17:00 – Pilgrimage‑Offering in Honor of Our Lady of La Peña
- Procession to the sanctuary with folk groups and pilgrims from across the island.
Saturday, September 20 – 12:00 – Virgin’s Procession to the Plaza
- Concludes with a Solemn Eucharist presided over by the Bishop of the Canary Islands Diocese.
- Followed by a traditional stew tasting, meetings with senior‑citizen centers, and musical acts.
Sunday, September 21 – 18:00 – Raising of the Virgin to Her Niche after the Canary wrestling exhibition in the plaza, marking the final ceremony of an intense week of faith and tradition.
These celebrations transform the Vega de Río Palmas into a gathering point for thousands of pilgrims, locals and tourists, offering a unique experience where religious devotion and popular culture intertwine in the island’s most important annual event.