Semana Santa (Holy Week)

During Semana Santa, you can see pre-Easter processions where religious icons and statues are carried through the streets. The biggest processions take place in Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria, but most towns and villages have their own celebrations and processions. Holy Week is in March or April (depending on the exact date of Easter). Easter in 2008 falls on March 23rd.

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Jesus Statue
Photo By Guijarro85

The festivities start with the Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday) and end with Lunes de Pascua (Easter Monday). It is really a celebration of life itself and the whole island comes alive and takes part.

Coffin - Semana Santa
Photo By Harpaelin

About 96% of Canarians are Roman Catholic, which is why Semana Santa 2008 is going to be very busy and very interesting to watch. Other religious festivals celebrated on Gran Canaria include Pilgrimage to Nuestra Señora de la Virgen del Pino, Fiesta de la Virgen del Rosario, Dia de los Reyes and Dia de Santa Lucia (Saint Lucia Day).

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It is very difficult to find Easter Eggs on the island (since they don’t give them here!) so if you’re coming with your kids for Easter… bring your own!

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