Gran Canaria, November 2025.
During the official presentation of the Las Canteras Sand Nativity Scene, which took place at the Literary Cabinet of Las Palmas, a very special edition was announced that commemorates two uninterrupted decades of ephemeral art, culture and social commitment, which this year pays tribute to the island of Gran Canaria.
At this event, presided over by Miguel Rodríguez, founder and artistic director of the Nativity Scene, and Aday Rodríguez, the project's promoter, the growth and international reach of the event were highlighted. Also present were the President of the Gran Canaria Island Council, Antonio Morales; the Councilor for Tourism; the Island Director of Culture, Serafín Sánchez; the Regional Delegate of the State Lottery and Betting Agency, Juan Manuel Moragas; and other authorities and cultural representatives.
The island president emphasized the symbolic value of the Nativity scene, which he defined as "a fleeting museum on the shores of the Atlantic that creates beauty and community," and recalled that its constancy for two decades has made it "a living metaphor for the unity, art and democratic values that sustain our society."
For this year's edition, the official image was created by the Yonders studio, whose poster recreates one of last year's most beloved scenes: the Three Kings. The project takes another step in its visual evolution with a rebranding that reflects its maturity, its Canarian identity, and its commitment to sustainability.
The event served to commemorate the history of the Sand Nativity Scene, which has garnered significant awards in recent years. In 2024, it was recognized as a Cultural Asset of Peace by the Artisophia Foundation, with support from UNESCO, for its role in promoting dialogue and coexistence between cultures. A year later, it was awarded the Roque Nublo Silver Prize by the Gran Canaria Island Council, in recognition of its contribution to art, tourism, and the island's cultural heritage.
In addition to these accolades, there is a symbolic tribute of national scope: Loterías y Apuestas del Estado (State Lotteries and Betting) has chosen the image of the Sand Nativity Scene for its December 25th draw, with a print run of six million ONCE tickets, taking the image of Las Canteras and the spirit of Gran Canaria to every corner of Spain.
