Gran Canaria’s Live Nativity Scenes
02/12/2009 - At Christmas time, one of the most cherished family traditions in the Canaries is the setting up of the “belén” – the Bethlehem nativity scene.
Using pine cones, tree bark and other bits and bobs together with miniature figures of the holy family, the three kings, the shepherds, the stable and the animals, the whole family comes together to make a model replica of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem
All around Gran Canaria you can find larger or even full size versions of these nativity scenes: in schools, shopping centres, town squares and even as sand sculptures on the beaches. By far, though, the most enchanting of these representations of the birth of Christ are the “belénes vivientes” – the live nativity scenes.
On the eighteenth of December, and with the participation of over one hundred actors of all ages, the people of the mountain village of Agüimes celebrate their special “belén viviente” where each of the nativity scenes we read about in the Bible are brought to life. The months of meticulous preparation and the tireless labour of local seamstresses, carpenters, farmers, artists, folklore groups and local businesses is rewarded with this touching and a magical re-enactment of Christ’s birth which attracts more and more visitors with each passing year.
On Christmas day in Veneguera, a village south of Mogán, people from all over the island come to see another interpretation of the nativity. Scores of local people delight visitors when they dress up as peasants, shepherds, the wise kings and, of course the holy family as they the events at Bethlehem. You can also have an enjoyable wander round, try all sorts of local produce, see local artisans practise their crafts, and enjoy Canarian music and dancing.
These charming and innovative events give you a unique and special insight into a cherished Canarian festive tradition – definitely a “must do” if you are here at Anfi during Christmas!
The Agüimes live Bethlehem will be held on Friday, December 18th at 20:30 pm in the main square of in the neighbourhood of the Espinales.
The Veneguera live Bethlehem takes place on the 25th December from 17.30 in the neighbourhood of el Cardonera, Veneguera. Celebrations begin with a mass and the then the live nativity scene.
For further information on these or any other events just contact our friendly staff at the Anfi Onsite Services office: (+34) 928 152 708 or onsiteservices@anfi.es
