Santa Cruz de Tenerife Set to Shine in National New Year’s Eve Broadcast

In an exciting development for the city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife has been chosen as the centerpiece for the national New Year’s Eve celebrations, with Radio Televisión Española (RTVE) announcing plans to broadcast the countdown live from the city in 2025. This decision promises to elevate Santa Cruz’s profile on a national scale, showcasing its vibrant culture and festive spirit.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Corpóreo in Santa Cruz, where key figures, including Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez and Councillor for Festivals Javier Caraballero, gathered alongside representatives from RTVE. Their presence underscored the significance of this event for the local community and the broader Canary Islands region.

Star-Studded Performances and Iconic Venue

The New Year’s Eve festivities will feature an array of performances by talented local artists, including Nia and St. Pedro, who are set to take the stage at the iconic Plaza de la Candelaria. They will be joined by other notable performers such as Melómana, Almacor, and various renowned orchestras from the Canary Islands. As the clock strikes midnight, the historic bells of the Church of La Concepción will ring out, heralding the arrival of the new year for all of Spain, creating a moment of unity and celebration.

A City Alive with Festive Spirit

Mayor Bermúdez expressed his deep pride in Santa Cruz being selected for this prestigious occasion, emphasizing the city’s vibrant Christmas spirit. The city is currently adorned with an impressive display of four and a half million lights, complemented by over a hundred festive activities that engage residents and visitors alike. He noted that the upcoming broadcast will serve as a grand finale to a Christmas season that has positioned Santa Cruz as a national highlight, showcasing its unique charm and festive atmosphere.

Councillor Caraballero echoed the Mayor’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of the event in bringing the community together. He noted that thousands of people gather annually at Plaza de la Candelaria to bid farewell to the old year, and this year’s nationwide broadcast will provide an opportunity to showcase the exceptional talent of top-tier artists and orchestras from the region. The event is expected to attract significant attention, both locally and nationally.

Innovative Features for a Unique Viewing Experience

María Eizaguirre, RTVE’s Director of Communication, revealed that this year’s countdown will introduce a fresh and daring approach to the traditional broadcast. The event will include live links to Madrid, as well as additional performances on La 1, enhancing the overall viewing experience for audiences at home. This innovative format aims to engage viewers in a more dynamic way, making them feel part of the celebration, regardless of their location.

Francisca González, RTVE’s representative in the Canary Islands, emphasized that this broadcast presents a unique opportunity to promote the region. Following the countdown, a mini-concert will feature two songs from each artist, which will also be included in the national broadcast. Nia, who is returning for her fourth consecutive year, expressed her excitement about the event, hinting at a special musical surprise in store for the audience. She will collaborate with St. Pedro, who will be making his debut as a presenter, adding to the anticipation surrounding the event.

A New Era in Hosting Traditions

This year’s broadcast marks a significant shift in the hosting tradition, as it will be the first time in 21 years that Roberto Herrera, a beloved figure in the Canary Islands’ New Year’s Eve celebrations, will not be at the helm. His absence signifies the end of an era characterized by his deep connection with the audience and his calming presence during the festivities. Herrera has been a staple of the celebrations, and his departure will undoubtedly be felt by many who have come to associate him with the joy and excitement of ringing in the new year.

Key points

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife will host the national New Year’s Eve countdown broadcast by RTVE in 2025.
• The event will feature performances by local artists Nia and St. Pedro at Plaza de la Candelaria.
• The bells of the Church of La Concepción will ring at midnight for Spain.
• Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez highlighted the city’s festive atmosphere with millions of lights and numerous activities.
• This year marks the first absence of Roberto Herrera as host after 21 years.
• A mini-concert featuring performances from artists will follow the countdown.