Puerto de la Cruz marks 52nd Oktoberfest from 24 to 30 August

In 1972, it was still just an idea; a year later, Tenerife held its very first Oktoberfest. Since then, the event has gone from strength to strength. It is now a fixture on the calendar of events in Puerto de la Cruz, in the north of the largest of the Canary Islands

Between 24 and 30 August, Puerto de la Cruz will once again be celebrating a blend of German tradition, Bavarian beer and a Canary Islands take on the whole affair.

The programme gets underway as early as Sunday, but reaches its climax the following weekend on the 29th and 30th. It has been a year in the making, organised in collaboration with the Centre for Initiatives and Tourism (CIT). And here’s what’s on the programme:

Oktoberfest on Tenerife

For the 52nd time, Bavarian tradition and Canary Island flair come together. It all kicks off with a concert at the Martiánez outdoor swimming pool on the town’s promenade. On Tuesday and Thursday, parades are on the programme, which are also set to showcase a blend of German and Canary Island traditions. Right in between, on Wednesday, Loro Parque is planning its train ride.

The highlight is scheduled for the weekend starting on 29 August: the big beer festival. German music and beer culture will come together to the sounds of the bands ‚Hüttenzauber‘, ‚Reinheitsgebot‘ and ‚Blechbuckel‘, who have been flown in especially for the occasion.

The town hopes that the event will also help to foster understanding: «Puerto de la Cruz remains committed to quality tourism; we are a cosmopolitan town, and this celebration is a clear example of the cosmopolitan, cultural and festive spirit that sets us apart,» said Mayor Leopoldo Afonso during the presentation.

The grand Oktoberfest will be celebrated on the Esplanade by the quay. The festivities will include beer, baked goods and brass band music. Among the sponsors is the Bavarian brewery Paulaner: «It is an honour for us to take part in an event with such a rich heritage in Puerto de la Cruz,» said Yeray Ramos, the brewery’s representative in the Canary Islands.