Second International Carnival Professionalisation Congress Held in Tenerife
The second International Carnival Professionalisation Congress took place on Thursday at the TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes, featuring experts, designers, artisans, and specialists from Europe, Africa, and America. The event focused on the key challenges facing trades connected to the Carnival celebration.
Organised by the Cabildo de Tenerife in partnership with the Association of Designers and Artisans of the Tenerife Carnival (ADAC), the event saw collaboration from the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council and the Government of the Canary Islands. Discussions revolved around training, conservation of traditional handicraft techniques, sustainability, innovation, and the professional opportunities linked to Carnival.
Rosa Dávila, President of the Cabildo, emphasised the crucial role of professionals contributing to the creation of costumes and artistic elements for the celebration. “Carnival is part of our collective identity, but behind every costume and performance, there are individuals dedicating months of work, knowledge, and creativity. They are the artisans and designers who keep alive the traditions that form part of our cultural heritage,” Dávila stated.
She also highlighted the importance of passing on knowledge between generations and preserving traditional techniques associated with the festival. “The true heritage of our Carnival lies not only in the costumes we admire but also in the people who create them and those who will learn to do so in the future. It is crucial to conserve this knowledge and facilitate its transmission for future generations to carry on these trades,” she added.
The congress wrapped up with remarks from Efraín Medina, the island’s Councillor for Employment, Education, and Youth, who underscored the importance of training and professional recognition for Carnival-related crafts. “Preserving Carnival’s artisan techniques means maintaining knowledge passed down over generations. Training and recognising these trades are vital for balancing tradition and innovation, enabling young people to find professional opportunities in this field,” he said.
Alfonso Cabello, Deputy Minister of the Presidency of the Canary Islands Government, noted that “the Tenerife Carnival is a success story due to the involvement of the local community. It generates employment and has a significant economic impact. Events like this congress enhance the visibility of Tenerife’s Carnival both within Spain and internationally, recognising the high level of community participation.”
Cabello invited attendees to contemplate the future direction of the festival, drawing insights from representatives of other international carnivals, emphasising the importance of digital transformation, innovation, and sustainability while retaining the essence of a community-led event.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez described the Carnival as “a reflection of our identity, built year-round through the talent, creativity, and hard work of countless individuals. Behind every costume and performance are professionals dedicated to shaping this celebration we hold dear.”
Antonio Santos, President of ADAC, expressed gratitude for the support from the Cabildo of Tenerife and the Government of the Canary Islands in organising such beneficial events for the sector.
Moderated by journalist Alexis Hernández, the congress featured four discussion panels examining cultural, economic, professional, and environmental aspects related to Carnival. Topics included the diversity of heritage and the international evolution of Carnival celebrations, the economic activity tied to Carnival, and the responsible management models and environmental challenges faced.
The congress provided a platform for sharing experiences on preserving intangible cultural heritage, generational transitions, and the adaptation of creative processes to meet current social, technological, and environmental challenges.
