The Tías City Council continues to develop a broad and varied program for the Christmas festivities. Within this framework, on Tuesday night, at 8:00 p.m., the traditional *Encuentro de Ranchos de Pascuas* took place at the church of Ntra. Sra. de la Candelaria.
The temple, which dates back to the 18th century and was built in the settlement that emerged in Tías after the volcanic eruptions of Timanfaya, proved insufficient to accommodate the large crowd that gathered to enjoy one of the most ancestral cultural events still preserved in Lanzarote.
This tradition brings together men and women each year who, with the arrival of Christmas, rehearse some biblical passages and traditional carols to tour the island's different towns.
The event began with a performance by the Rancho de Pascuas de Mácher, directed by Professor Juanma Morales. Next, the Rancho de Pascuas Archinech of Tinajo performed, under the musical direction of Professor Ivanhoe Rodríguez. The event was closed by the hosts, the Rancho de Pascuas de Tías, musically directed by Professor Blas Martín.
The audience, which filled the permitted capacity with some remaining in the church's portico, intensely enjoyed each of the performances, in many cases evoking childhood memories, when they participated with their parents in the traditional Midnight Mass, celebrated at midnight. All the groups received the affection and warmth of the public, who accompanied them with applause both upon entering and leaving the temple.
The event was presided over by the titular parish priest of Tías, Leonardo Graterol, the mayor of the municipality, José Juan Cruz, and the councilwoman for Festivals, Miriam Hernández. Likewise, attendees were able to admire the Nativity Scene installed on one side of the Main Altar, a work created by resident Lázaro Martín, who once again contributed to enriching the Christmas atmosphere.
