Las Canteras Beach is buzzing with activity as the final touches are being made to the much-anticipated Sand Nativity Scene, set to open its doors to the public tomorrow (Friday) at 10:00am.
This year marks the 19th edition of the ephemeral art display, dedicated to celebrating the unique neighbourhoods of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, where visitors can enjoy the stunning sculptures until January 7th, 2025.
Local and regional authorities, alongside corporate sponsors, toured the nine intricately designed scenes this morning. The display, which has become a staple of the Christmas season in the Canary Islands, is expected to surpass last year’s record of 170,000 visitors.
This year’s theme highlights the charm of Las Palmas’ neighbourhoods, featuring iconic landmarks such as the Rectorate of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) and the surrounding cliffs.
Eleven artists from seven different countries, including local talents Etual Ojeda, Bentejuí Ojeda, and Aarón Ojeda, contributed to the masterpiece. Joining them are internationally acclaimed sculptors such as Kevin Crawford (Australia), Gresham Glover and Sue McGrew (USA), Asheley Henning (New Zealand), Johannes C. Hogebrink and Michel de Kok (Netherlands), and Fergus Mulvany (Ireland).
Key figures in the city’s cultural and tourism sectors visited the site on Thursday, including Pedro Quevedo, the City Councillor for Tourism and the City of the Sea, and Antonio Morales, President of the Gran Canaria Cabildo. Accompanied by Olga del Pino, CaixaBank’s Head of Social Action, they reviewed the impressive sand sculptures and praised the initiative, which continues to put Gran Canaria on the map for holiday tourism.
The Sand Nativity Scene at Las Canteras remains a testament to the blending of cultural heritage and modern artistry. Organised by Go Beyond, with the support of various institutions and sponsors, this seasonal attraction is a must-visit for residents and tourists alike.
