Los Indianos
January
Symbolising the return of newly wealthy emigrants from the former Spanish colonies of Venezuela and Cuba, Los Indianos is easily one of the best parties in La Palma. Festivities involve throwing buckets of talcum powder over everyone in sight and plenty of wine.
Fiesta del Almendro en Flor
January-February
Loved by locals and tourists alike, the Festival of the Almond Blossom in Puntagorda is a celebration of all things almond with free-flowing nuts and wine – perfect for shaking off the January blues.
Fiesta de San Antonio
June
Although it has roots in religion, there’s little churchly dignity about Garafía’s annual bash. Part concert, part livestock show, expect thumping live music courtesy of local favourites and a race featuring weighted sleds pulled by oxen.
La Bajada de la Virgen de las Nieves
August
Few festivals include dancing dwarves but La Bajada isn’t any old festival. Held every five years, the fiesta involves bringing a gargantuan statue of the Virgin of the Snows from Nieves to the capital over 18 days. It’s an impressive sight, although the polka dancing midgets are the crowd favourite.
El Diablo
September
Lucifer has an annual date with the tiny town of Tijarafe, if only in the shape of a vast papier mâché effigy. After much music, dancing and drinking, he appears in the main square to mock screams before being vanquished by the crowds with the help of some fireworks. Although his head is usually burnt, El Diablo returns every September for an encore.
