Vibrant Celebrations Light Up Santa Cruz de Tenerife with Animal Day and Pisaca Fest

Yesterday, Santa Cruz de Tenerife transformed into a lively hub of festivities, drawing large crowds to the heart of the city. The Plaza del Príncipe became the focal point for the Animal Day celebrations, while the nearby El Toscal neighborhood buzzed with excitement during the colorful Pisaca Fest. Both events not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of community and engagement among residents.

Animal Day: A Celebration of Compassion and Responsibility

The Animal Day festivities were meticulously organized by various departments of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council, including Public Services, Strategic Planning, Environmental Sustainability, and Animal Welfare. This year, the event received additional support from the Santa Cruz Sustainable Foundation and was proudly sponsored by the Official College of Veterinarians of Santa Cruz. City officials hailed the day as a “resounding success”, emphasizing the impressive turnout and the positive social impact that the event had on the community.

Attendees were treated to a plethora of engaging activities designed to promote animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. Highlights included a lively pet parade and opportunities for animal adoptions, allowing many to find new furry companions. The local police dog unit captivated the audience with impressive demonstrations showcasing dog obedience and agility. Practical workshops were also available, covering essential topics such as proper leash handling and even dog biscuit making, which proved to be a hit among pet owners and their furry friends alike.

Children were not left out of the fun, as face painting stations added a splash of color to the festivities. Informative talks addressed crucial issues such as responsible pet ownership, the dangers of wildlife trafficking, and effective management of cat colonies. Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez expressed his satisfaction with the event’s turnout, noting that the presence of so many participants in the Plaza del Príncipe underscored the community’s commitment to animal welfare. He emphasized that respecting the animal world is a vital social pillar and reaffirmed the city’s dedication to its over 45,000 registered dogs, along with the fifteen designated areas for their enjoyment.

Carlos Tarife, the councillor responsible for Public Services, shared his enthusiasm for this year’s celebration, stating that it exceeded expectations and reflected a strong commitment from the community. He also highlighted ongoing collaborations with the Cabildo aimed at improving public spaces, including exciting plans for a designated dog bathing area at Las Gaviotas beach. Tarife reiterated the city’s strict policies against pet neglect, reinforcing their unwavering commitment to animal welfare and the well-being of pets in the community.

Pisaca Fest: A Celebration of Family and Community Spirit

While Animal Day festivities were in full swing, the El Toscal neighborhood was equally vibrant with the ongoing Pisaca Fest. This event, organized by the City Council in collaboration with the Luz y Vida Community Association, received support from Santa Cruz Fiestas and the Canary Islands Military Historical Museum. The family-oriented festival was packed with a variety of activities designed to entertain children and families, creating a joyful atmosphere throughout the neighborhood.

The morning kicked off with engaging performances, including a delightful rendition of The Lion King and a comedic show by Clown Cañita, which had families laughing and enjoying the day. The musical lineup was equally impressive, featuring performances by local talents such as Almas de Goma, Sureto—a tribute band to Hombres G—and the lively rhythms of Agua del Chorro and Hydra 2.0, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Purificación Dávila, the councillor for the Centro-Ifara district, praised the successful turnout for both the Pisaca Joven Fest and the family-friendly activities held on Saturday. She attributed the success to the collaborative efforts with the Luz y Vida Community Association, emphasizing the importance of providing healthy and quality leisure activities for the youth. Dávila noted that the large attendance at the Pisaca Fest solidified Casa Pisaca as a central hub for unity and celebration within the district, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

Key points

• The Plaza del Príncipe was the main venue for Animal Day celebrations in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Animal Day activities included a pet parade, animal adoptions, and dog agility displays.
• Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez highlighted the community’s commitment to animal welfare.
• Pisaca Fest featured performances and activities for families in the El Toscal neighborhood.
• Collaborations with local organizations enhanced the success of both events.
• Carlos Tarife announced plans for a dog bathing area at Las Gaviotas beach.
• The events showcased the city’s dedication to creating an animal-friendly environment.