Travelling to the Canary Islands in August is one way of escaping from the heat. At a time of year when most countries in Europe are suffering from high summer temperatures, on the Canary Islands archipelago one can enjoy mild, pleasant weather. August in the Canary Islands is one of the best months for admiring the night sky, discovering new interests and learning about some of the islands’ older, more established traditions.
Meteor shower
Every year during this month one of the most spectacular meteor showers takes place: the Perseids, which can be easily observed in the Canary Islands from any of the archipelago’s three Starlight Reserves, a certification awarded only to regions where one can gaze on the firmament in its purest state, without the light pollution caused by cities and passing aeroplanes.
August with mild temperatures is possible
When it is really hot, the last thing you want is to be far from the pool or the sea. But with a mild, pleasant climate like that of the Canary Islands, the sun is not only great for spending a lovely day on the beach – it can also be a superb companion on hikes in the mountains or for an afternoon’s shopping.
Summer pilgrimages
August is a month of numerous religious offerings and pilgrimages in the Canary Islands, most notably the Bajada de la Rama de Agaete (Gran Canaria) in honour of the ‘Virgen de las Nieves’, a huge festival when people walk through the town accompanied by music, dancing and waving their branches in the air until reaching the sea. In Tenerife, thousands of pilgrims walk to the Basilica of Candelaria in the middle of the night to worship the ‘Virgen de Candelaria’, the patron saint of the Canary Islands, make offerings to her and honour her image. Two events that combine fervour and tradition.
August is a month filled with traditional festivities: the Vará del Pescao in Arinaga (Gran Canaria), with its communal sardine meal, or the ancient Tenerife festival of Los Corazones de Tejina, huge hearts made with cakes, flowers and fruit, are just some of the festive events you can enjoy if you are in the Canary Islands.
