Las Tablas de San Andrés – The Thrilling Handmade Board Race in Tenerife

Every year on November 29, the streets of Icod de los Vinos in northern Tenerife transform into a high-speed downhill racing track for one of the island’s most thrilling and unique traditions – Las Tablas de San Andrés. Participants of all ages grab simple wooden boards and slide down the steep, narrow streets, reaching impressive speeds in a tradition that dates back centuries.

This festival, deeply rooted in Canarian culture, is more than just an adrenaline rush – it also celebrates the opening of the new wine season, blending tradition, sport, and community spirit in a way that is truly unique to Tenerife.

The History of Las Tablas de San Andrés

The origins of Las Tablas de San Andrés are tied to the historic wood industry of Icod de los Vinos. Centuries ago, workers used wooden boards to transport heavy tree trunks from the mountains down to the workshops and ports in the town below. Over time, this functional method of transportation turned into a daring tradition, with young men competing to slide down the streets as fast as possible.

Today, the event remains an important cultural tradition, where locals and visitors alike participate in the handmade board race, keeping the legacy of the town’s history alive.

How the Race Works

✔ The Board: The tabla is a simple wooden board, often made from pine, with a smooth surface for maximum speed and control.
✔ The Streets: The races take place on steep, narrow streets, with Calle del Plano being the most famous slope, where riders can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h.
✔ The Riders: Both experienced and first-time riders take part, often wearing padded clothes, gloves, and helmets for safety.
✔ The Finish Line: The ride ends in large piles of old tires, placed strategically to cushion the impact and ensure a safe stop.

While the tradition is open to anyone brave enough to try, it does require skill and balance, making it an exhilarating but demanding challenge.

More Than a Race – A Celebration of Wine & Culture

While the board race is the highlight, Las Tablas de San Andrés is also a celebration of the new wine season in Tenerife.

Wine Cellars Open Their Doors – Local wineries offer free tastings of their latest wines, inviting visitors to enjoy the flavors of the season.
Roasted Chestnuts & Canarian Delicacies – Vendors fill the streets with warm roasted chestnuts, sweet pastries, and traditional cheeses, making the festival a gastronomic delight.
"Correr el Cacharro" Tradition – In a loud and playful event, children drag strings of metal cans and pots through the streets, symbolizing letting go of the old and welcoming the new.

This mix of tradition, excitement, and celebration makes Las Tablas de San Andrés one of the most special festivals in Tenerife.

Best Spots to Watch & Participate

✔ Calle del Plano – The steepest and fastest track, where the most daring riders test their skills.
✔ Plaza Andrés de Lorenzo Cáceres – A great central spot to watch the races while enjoying food, music, and wine tastings.
✔ Calle San Antonio – A slightly gentler slope, perfect for beginners trying the tablas for the first time.
✔ The Wine Cellars of Icod – The best places to taste the newest wines while experiencing the festival atmosphere.

Anecdote: The Rider Who Broke the Record – And His Pants!

In 2018, a young local rider set the unofficial speed record for Las Tablas de San Andrés, flying down Calle del Planofaster than anyone before. As he approached the tire pile at the finish line, he lost control, flipped in mid-air, and skidded across the pavement – only to stand up laughing, completely unharmed but missing the back of his pants!

The crowd burst into laughter and applause, and the rider became an instant festival legend, proving that in Las Tablas de San Andrés, it's all about the fun, the thrill, and the unexpected moments!

Final Thoughts – Why Experience Las Tablas de San Andrés?

A unique, adrenaline-filled Canarian tradition – ★★★★★
A festival that blends sports, history, and culture – ★★★★★
A fantastic opportunity to taste Tenerife’s new wines – ★★★★★
A fun and lively atmosphere for both locals and visitors – ★★★★★
Overall experience – ★★★★★

Las Tablas de San Andrés is more than just a race down the streets – it is a celebration of Tenerife’s heritage, a test of courage, and a gathering of friends and family. Whether you choose to ride the tablas yourself or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, this event offers an unforgettable experience of Canarian culture and tradition.

Real Pictures of Las Tablas de San Andrés

Here are five high-quality real images capturing the excitement and energy of this thrilling festival:

Participants sliding down Calle del Plano on wooden boards.
Crowds gathered around the race area, cheering for the riders.
Vendors roasting chestnuts and serving local wines.
Children pulling strings of metal cans through the streets in the "Correr el Cacharro" tradition.
A close-up of the handmade tablas used for the race.

Las Tablas de San Andrés - The Thrilling Handmade Board Race in Tenerife

See also

Marathons, Triathlons, and Cycling in Tenerife - A Sports Enthusiast’s Paradise

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria - The Cultural Capital of the Canary Islands

Santa Cruz de La Palma - The Colonial Capital of the Green Island