Last Day of 2024 on Tenerife makes us reflect and is the perfect occasion to close the year with this article.
As the sun casts its final rays over the beautiful coastlines of Tenerife, residents and visitors prepare for a special New Year’s Eve. The last day of 2024 is not only a moment for reflection but also a celebration of resilience and unity on this diverse island. From social challenges to remarkable events and festive outlooks, Tenerife has once again proven to be a unique corner of Europe.
A Year of Challenges
2024 was a turbulent year for Tenerife, with some significant challenges that drew attention. The migration crisis reached new heights, with more than 46,000 migrants arriving on the Canary Islands via the dangerous Atlantic route. The local government, led by President Fernando Clavijo, made efforts to raise awareness about the situation and lobbied the European Union for more support. However, the record number of arrivals also revealed a harrowing humanitarian crisis, with the Atlantic route once again being one of the deadliest migration routes in the world.
Alongside the migration issue, the island also struggled with the effects of climate change. Temperatures on Tenerife rose by an average of 1.5°C, leading to longer periods of extreme weather. Nevertheless, the Canary Islands, including Tenerife, continued working on sustainable solutions, such as improved water management projects and promoting sustainable tourism.
Notable Events
One of the most poignant events of the year was the disappearance of Marc and Laura. Laura Trappeniers (66) and Marc Olbrechts (71) disappeared on April 22, 2024, from their home in Callao Salvaje. The investigation is shrouded in a cloud of secrecy. Laura was found murdered in the ocean, while Marc is still missing. Three people were arrested and remain in custody.
Price increases on Tenerife have surged in recent years, having a growing impact on everyone who works and lives on the island. The islands of the Canary Archipelago are experiencing a sharp rise in food costs and higher prices in the tourism sector.
A striking issue in 2024 is that many people are employed in the tourism sector and earn an income, but cannot afford to rent a home due to skyrocketing rent prices. Especially in the southern part of the island, there has been an increase in the number of homeless women, young people, and workers who cannot find affordable housing. The rising rents make it impossible for many to own their own home, forcing them to seek alternatives such as cars, vans, caravans, slums, and even caves to live in.
Festive Preparations
Despite the challenges, there is a festive atmosphere on the last day of the year in Tenerife. The squares in Santa Cruz, La Laguna, and Puerto de la Cruz slowly fill with people coming together to close the year. The famous Plaza de España in Santa Cruz becomes the epicenter of the celebrations, with live music, dancing, and a spectacular fireworks show welcoming the new year.
The traditional uvas de la suerte, the twelve grapes that bring luck for each chime at midnight, are already ready. In many households, there is one last chance to enjoy typical Canarian dishes like puchero canario and papas arrugadas. Wearing red underwear, a symbol of luck and love for the new year, remains a beloved tradition among locals and tourists who are gradually adopting the custom.
New Year’s Eve: Unity and Hope
On the beaches of Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas, thousands of people will gather to admire the fireworks together. For those seeking a more intimate experience, Las Cañadas at the foot of Teide offers a magical location to welcome the new year under a starry sky. The winter chill at high altitude is softened by warm drinks, blankets, and the camaraderie of friends and family.
2024 ends with mixed feelings: it was a year of challenges and triumphs, of sadness and hope. The resilience of the people of Tenerife and their ability to come together, even in difficult times, makes this island unique. As the clock strikes midnight, not only a new year but also a new opportunity is celebrated.
Wishes for 2025
With the arrival of 2025, the people of Tenerife hope for a year of positivity and growth. There is hope for further progress in sustainability, a better distribution of resources for the migration crisis, and an even stronger community. The unique blend of tradition, modernity, and unity that defines Tenerife will continue to be a source of inspiration in the new year.
On this last day of 2024 on Tenerife, we wish both residents and tourists a Happy New Year! Or, as we say here, ¡Feliz Año Nuevo!
May 2025 bring a year full of joy, health, and prosperity. Let’s continue building a better and more beautiful Tenerife together.
Guy Devos © AI Illustration
Last Day of 2024 on Tenerife ©
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