The indigenous people of Tenerife are called Guanches. Their traditional customs were almost completely suppressed during the Spanish rule of the dictator Franco. Events based on Guanche traditions were even banned on pain of punishment. Nevertheless, the old customs and rites were passed on in secret and thus survived the period of oppression. With the arrival of democracy on Tenerife, Guanche sites were restored and artefacts from the time before the Spanish conquest were exhibited in museums.
Since 1985, the year in Santa Cruz has begun with the Festival de Música de Canarias. Music lovers in particular should not miss the performances with musicians from all over the world, which take place daily from the beginning of January to the beginning of February.
The Carnaval in Santa Cruz is another highlight, it is the largest dance festival in the world and is even listed in the Guinness Book of Records. The unusual, colourful costumes are elaborately handmade by the Tinerfeños and can weigh up to 70 kilograms. The dancers, singers and musicians parade through the streets to the rhythmic sounds of samba.
The Romerías are one of the island's religious highlights. These are pilgrimages to the patron saints or Madonnas of the island. At the same time, the ‘Lucha cannaria’, a wrestling match in the old Guanche tradition, as well as theatre performances and folk dances take place.