The III Premios Canarias de Hostelería Santa Marta will take place in Maspalomas. This year, the event highlights kitchen professionals and introduces a public vote. The awards aim to recognise those shaping the region’s tourism reputation.
Maspalomas is set to host the III Premios Canarias de Hostelería Santa Marta 2026, an event that will spotlight the dedication of hospitality professionals across the region. Scheduled for July 29 at the Centro Cultural de Maspalomas, the ceremony will bring together industry workers, local authorities, and the public to celebrate those who contribute daily to the area’s reputation as a leading European tourist destination.
This year’s edition introduces a significant change: for the first time, a public vote will determine one of the award recipients. Organisers have invited hospitality workers to share what their profession means to them, collecting 35 heartfelt statements. A jury has selected 10 finalists, and the public can now vote for their favourite through the official website. The winner will be announced during the gala, reinforcing the event’s commitment to recognising personal stories and community involvement.
The 2026 awards will focus on kitchen staff, including chefs, section heads, and assistants, acknowledging their creativity and commitment. Previous editions honoured housekeeping staff in 2024 and front-of-house professionals in 2025. The event will also highlight companies and initiatives that stand out for innovation, sustainability, design, and gastronomic quality, with the full list of winners revealed at the ceremony.
Local officials emphasise the broader impact of the awards. Alejandro Marichal, first deputy mayor of San Bartolomé de Tirajana, notes that visitors often remember the people behind their experiences rather than the buildings. Yilenia Vega, councillor for Tourism, Festejos and Events, stresses the importance of recognising those who work behind the scenes to maintain the region’s high standards. Both underline that the awards are designed to foster pride and acknowledge the essential role of hospitality workers in shaping Maspalomas Costa Canaria’s image.
The Premios Canarias de Hostelería Santa Marta, held annually to coincide with the patron saint of hospitality, have become a key event for the sector in the Canary Islands. The gala brings together institutions, businesses, professional associations, and residents, reinforcing the value of service excellence in the region’s tourism industry. According to open sources, the hospitality sector remains a cornerstone of the Canary Islands’ economy, employing tens of thousands and driving both local and international tourism. Events like this not only celebrate individual achievement but also help sustain the region’s competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market. The introduction of a public vote this year reflects a growing trend towards community participation in recognising professional excellence.
