Fiestas Colombinas – Honoring Columbus in the Capital of La Gomera

Overview and Significance
The Fiestas Colombinas are La Gomera’s most important historical celebration, held every year in San Sebastián de La Gomera to commemorate Christopher Columbus’s departure from the island in 1492 on his first voyage to the Americas. These festivities pay tribute to the town’s role as the last European port of call before the discovery of the New World and highlight the historical ties between La Gomera and global exploration.

More than a festival, the Fiestas Colombinas are a celebration of identity, history, and international friendship. They combine cultural, religious, maritime, and civic events, attracting both residents and visitors in search of authentic Canarian tradition.

Historical Background
When Columbus set sail on his first transatlantic journey, he stopped in La Gomera for provisions, water, and repairs. He stayed longer than planned due to his personal connection with Beatriz de Bobadilla, the island’s governor at the time. This brief but pivotal episode in history established La Gomera’s enduring connection to the Age of Discovery.

Since the early 20th century, the people of La Gomera have commemorated this historic event with annual festivities in September. The celebrations have grown to include parades, concerts, maritime tributes, and international participation, reinforcing the island’s link to Latin America and the broader Spanish-speaking world.

When and Where
The Fiestas Colombinas typically take place during the first two weeks of September, with the main events centered around September 6th, the symbolic date of Columbus’s departure. All celebrations are held in San Sebastián de La Gomera, primarily around the historic quarter, the church plaza, the Torre del Conde park, and the port area.

The festival coincides with the end of summer, making it one of the most vibrant times to visit the island.

Main Events and Festivities

Opening Ceremony and Flag Raising
The festival begins with an official opening event, which includes speeches, performances, and the raising of the flags of Spain, the Canary Islands, La Gomera, and the invited country of honor — usually a Latin American nation.
Maritime Parade
A symbolic boat procession is held in the port of San Sebastián, paying tribute to the moment Columbus set sail. Boats are decorated with banners and flowers, accompanied by traditional music and public participation.
Historical Reenactments
Actors dressed in 15th-century attire reenact scenes from the Columbus era, often including Columbus’s farewell to Beatriz de Bobadilla. These performances bring the past to life in the very streets where history was made.
Cultural and Music Events
Throughout the week, outdoor concerts, dance shows, folk music, and exhibitions take place in plazas and public spaces. Canarian rondallas, South American groups, and Spanish performers fill the evenings with sound and color.
Religious Ceremonies
Masses and processions are held in Iglesia de la Asunción, the same church where Columbus is believed to have prayed before setting sail. These events blend spirituality with historical memory.
Gastronomic and Artisan Markets
Local products, Canarian food, and artisanal crafts are sold in open-air markets, offering visitors a taste of traditional Gomeran life.

Tourism and Visitor Experience
The Fiestas Colombinas offer a unique opportunity for tourists to experience La Gomera’s culture in a festive and inclusive setting. Hotels in San Sebastián are usually fully booked during the first week of September, and many visitors come over by ferry from Tenerife to join the celebrations for a day or two.

For travelers, this is an ideal time to explore the capital and witness local traditions in their most vibrant form. The event is especially popular among history lovers, cultural tourists, and families looking to enjoy music, food, and atmosphere.

Worth to do!
Visitors attending the Fiestas Colombinas can enjoy a range of activities that combine history, culture, and celebration. Here are some highlights to consider:

Attend the Maritime Tribute
Watch the decorated boats sail in honor of Columbus’s departure from the island, a symbolic and moving tribute to La Gomera’s historical role in global exploration.
Enjoy Open-Air Concerts
Throughout the festival, nightly concerts take place in the town center, featuring Canarian music, Latin rhythms, and international guests. Most performances are free and open to the public.
Visit Casa de Colón During the Festival
The museum remains open with special exhibits during the festival week. It offers historical context and a quiet contrast to the festive atmosphere outside.
Experience the Local Cuisine at the Artisan Market
Sample traditional dishes, tropical fruits, and local cheeses while browsing handmade crafts, pottery, and textiles in the shaded streets of the old town.
Watch the Historical Parade and Reenactments
Don’t miss the visual spectacle of actors, musicians, and floats recreating the era of Columbus — an event that brings both locals and tourists together.

Conclusion
The Fiestas Colombinas are La Gomera’s most culturally significant celebration — a vibrant blend of history, music, and maritime tradition. Held every September in San Sebastián, the festival honors the island’s place in world history while highlighting its living culture and international connections. For visitors, it offers a memorable and enriching experience that connects the past with the present in one of the Canary Islands’ most historic towns.

Fiestas Colombinas - Honoring Columbus in the Capital of La Gomera

See also

Valverde - The Quiet Capital in the Clouds of El Hierro

San Sebastián de La Gomera - The Island’s Historic Port and Capital

Roque Nublo and the Mountainous Heart of Gran Canaria - The Island Above the Clouds