Hachitos de San Juan (St John’s Torches)

Every year on 23 June, the municipality of Icod de los Vinos brings a native tradition back to life. The hachos were torches made of Canary Island pine wood by the Guanche aboriginals to get light at night.

On St John’s Eve, people use these torches to light up bonfires. Then, there is a parade from La Vega to El Amparo, accompanied by traditional tajaraste music and dance. Finally, little torches – hachitos – are lit up in the hills making drawings, while others roll down as if they were lava.

• When: 23 June

• Where: Icod de los Vinos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife

• More info: http://www.icoddelosvinos.es/

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