Over one hundred horses accompany the statue of San Sebastián to the sea

On the main day of the San Sebastián celebrations, co-patron of Adeje, the people returned to La Enramada to honour their commitment to tradition

20 january 2025

 

This morning, Monday, 20 January, one of the island's oldest celebrations took place—San Sebastián, a festival dating back to the 18th century at a site of worship predating the Conquest. Over time, San Sebastián has evolved to reflect modern customs. Thousands gathered at La Caleta for this unmissable occasion to attend the liturgical ceremony and the blessing of animals following the procession along La Enramada beach. This year, over one hundred horses participated, all monitored by veterinary specialists to ensure their well-being.


The events began at midday with a solemn mass in the Church of San Sebastián, followed by festivities at La Enramada beach. According to Adeje’s mayor, José Miguel Rodríguez Fraga, “This is the people's festival, an popular celebration that brings together a multitude of people around a common element: San Sebastián.”


The mayor added, “This celebration unites two cultures: the Guanche culture and that of the conquerors. This site has always been significant, partly because of the presence of water, and was central to essential activities. 20 January is a deeply meaningful day for everyone in the south, with great anthropological and historical significance. This celebration is part of our identity, both deeply and collectively. It also blends with the diverse nationalities that now share this space and who celebrate with us, highlighting the richness and diversity of our tradition.”


Rodríguez Fraga emphasised, “This day is an occasion for congratulations and encouragement for everyone who comes to share it with us. It is also a time to fondly remember those who cannot be here. My thoughts especially go to those who are far away, particularly in Venezuela, who are experiencing difficult times. I know that despite the distance, they live this festival with the same enthusiasm.”


The day’s events began with a solemn mass in the Church of San Sebastián at noon, followed by a procession to La Enramada beach. This year, over one hundred horses joined the celebrations alongside goats, sheep, dogs, donkeys, camels, ponies, and birds, all accompanied by their owners and cared for in compliance with animal welfare regulations.


One of the most eagerly awaited moments, the traditional entry of the riders into the sea, was carried out under the careful supervision of lifeguards, police, and medical staff. After this the statue of San Sebastián was taken to the El Humilladero area and later to the plaza that bears his name, where the blessing of the animals took place.


Yesterday, on the eve of the celebration, there was a sung mass performed by the group ‘Mesturao,’ a short procession accompanied by the Adeje Patronal Band, and a performance by Parranda Bentahod.


Food and fellowship
As is customary, food stalls were set up by various local fiesta committees, alongside additional gastronomic offerings provided by bars and restaurants with long-standing roots in Adeje.


The celebration was marked by a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Green spaces were prepared to allow attendees to enjoy the festival, which brought together families, groups of friends, and individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures.
As in previous years, the event saw a high turnout, along with traditional food and sweet stalls near the plaza. The Mirador de La Paloma was a particularly popular spot to watch the horses and their riders perform in the sea.


Once again, the council ensured a reserved area for people with reduced mobility or disabilities, providing excellent visibility and accessibility for everyone.
Security arrangements. Given the significance of this local festival, which attracts large crowds annually, the council organised an extensive security operation to ensure the smooth running of the event. This included the participation of local and national police, the Guardia Civil, canine units, lifeguards, Civil Protection volunteers, ambulance services, and a team of public sector workers.


To enhance safety, parking zones were designated, keeping main roads clear for better pedestrian and vehicular flow. A cordoned-off area was also prepared for the livestock participating in the procession. The procession route was secured, and veterinary staff were on hand to guarantee animal welfare.
The counci has thanked the public who attended the event for their exemplary, noting that no incidents were reported. They also acknowledged the public’s responsibility in caring for their pets.