FOLKLORE.
Among the roots of Canary folklore are Christian traditions, but also colourful exotic streaks, from the primitive guanche people and the mixture of Andalusian and Hispano American cultures.
Very cherished by the population is the so called Festivity of the Branch (Fiesta de la Rama) that is celebrated in Gran Canaria, where people have rescued the aboriginal past and enter the sea in order to hit the water with tree branches imploring for rain, as well as lowering the virgins from their altars along the island and bringing them close to the sea with the same aim in mind.
In the same manner, the Canary dances and songs have a distinct note of exoticism, due to the ancient primitive settlers and a curious link between the Andalusians and the Hispano Americans.
The guitar and the tiple, an instrument similar to the ukulele, carry the tune, accompanied by maracas, flutes and drums, where the most indigenous African customs blend together.
In each one of the islands there are very particular traditions that feature different tones of folklore, where the carnivals are the preferential note in the population’s tastes.