Spring in Gran Canaria: Almond Blossom Festival – Off the beaten path

A festival in February celebrating Spain’s first almond blossom, travellers arrive at Gran Canaria International Airport, eager to experience the unique cultural festival held in the remote mountain village of Tejeda. As they journey inland from the coastal plains of Las Palmas, the landscape transforms into the dramatic volcanic peaks of the Sacred Mountains and Risco Caido, UNESCO World Heritage (since 2019) which makes the dramatic backdrop for the festivities.

Upon reaching Tejeda, the traveller discovers a mountain top village alive with Canary Island culture. With a population of just under 2000 villagers. Traditions are not merely performed here for visitors, they are woven into the daily lives of the residents. Nestled within the protected LENPC area, the village’s authentic character shines through. Far away from the busy beach resorts on the island. From the local preparations for the festival to the network of hiking trails that connect Tejeda to the natural island landscape. Visitors here get insight into how this remote community maintains its cultural integrity while welcoming outsiders to their festivities and gastronomy.

Springtime Blossom Festival

2026 will see its 53rd Almond Blossom Festival starting on February 6th. Tejeda transforms into a vibrant celebration of Canarian heritage. See the village come alive with the sound of live folk music, the rhythms of traditional dances, and the displays of centuries-old crafts. This living tradition predates commercial tourism, shares the richness of Canarian culture – from the visual splendour of almond blossoms against volcanic peaks to the aromas of almond-based cuisine.

Did you know that there are 50-60 varieties of Almonds grown in Tejeda?

Experience the arrival of early spring at the heart of Gran Canaria. The white blossoms of the almond trees spread across valleys and ravines, painting the volcanic landscape with delicate colours. It feels like you are in the middle of a glamourous shoot for a perfume ad. The petals float on the breeze and a light frangipane aroma permeates the mountain air. 

Almond Blossom and Music

The festival reaches its colourful crescendo on Saturday. Throughout the day special celebrations intertwining gastronomy and cultural traditions.  Taking part in the festival connects personal relationships with community heritage and ancient traditions. Street parades, live music and other activities animate Tejeda over the three day event. On Saturday expect local food to be on offer in the main streets and squares. Traditional Canary Island Music and drums.

This moment for an agricultural community is a celebration as the blossom gives some idea of the future almond harvest coming in the Autumn.

Hidden Mountain Top Fiestas

Festivals like this serve to discover communities and their lifestyles, past and present. Authentic cultural expression that still flourish in an increasingly digital world. Recognized as a Festival of National Tourist Interest in Spain, the event aspires to international recognition for its cultural and natural value.

Tejeda is mountain town 1,046 metres (3430 feet) above sea level, focused on the environment, it´s dramatic surroundings, and ancient traditions. It has become the trekking capital of the island with more than 60 marked trails. (covering all levels of difficulty). The highlight of them being the Canary Islands’ Camino de Santiago which passes through Tejeda.

Tejeda via Jack Stapleton on Unsplash

Tejeda´s Food Culture

Some typical local dishes served in this central region of Gran Canaria. Here are a few examples:

• Carnival cookies
• Rice pudding
• Typical baked potatoes papas arrugadas
• Frangollo: made with cornflour, lemo, butter, raisins…
• Rice with meat
• Chorizo from Teror
• Rancho Canario stew made with chickpeas, pork, potatoes, saffron, white wine..
• Orange Liqueur
• Sweet Potato with Cinnamon Truchas de batata  (Dulceria Nublo)
• Mazapan de Tejeda, Almond cakes and desserts such as bienmesabe.