If you only make time for one romería outside El Médano this year, this is the one with the strongest claim to fame: the Bajada y Subida de la Virgen del Socorro, in Güímar, is considered the oldest romería in the Canary Islands, with centuries of continuous tradition behind it.
When
📅 Monday 7 September (Bajada — the Virgin is brought down from her sanctuary) and Tuesday 8 September (Subida — she’s carried back up). It’s genuinely a two-day event, and each half has its own atmosphere — the Bajada tends to draw the bigger crowd.
What makes it different
Unlike most romerías, which are a single-day affair, this one unfolds over two consecutive days. If your schedule allows, catching both gives you a fuller picture: the descent is the louder, more festive half; the return the following day is quieter and more solemn.
What to bring
- Comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a little stained — wine and must are handed out freely along the route
- A hat and water — you’ll likely be standing in the sun for a stretch
- Cash — food and drink stalls are typically cash-only
What time to arrive
Canarian romerías generally get going around midday and run well into the evening. Arrive by late morning if you want a spot with a clear view of the procession before the crowds build — this is one of the better-attended romerías on the island, so it fills up.
Parking
Exact street closures aren’t published far in advance for most romerías, this one included. The safe approach: arrive early, park on the outskirts of Güímar rather than trying to get close to the centre, and walk in — the roads directly on the procession route close to traffic.
Planning to base yourself in El Médano and day-trip out to Güímar? It’s about 30 minutes by car. See our full guide to romerías near El Médano for the rest of the calendar, and book your stay at The Tree House Hostel as your base for exploring the south.
