As an autonomous community of Spain, the Canary Islands stand as a distinct entity in their own right. The Canaries have had their own flag since August 10, 1982, the day their autonomous status was officially recognized. The islands also have their own regional government leader who represents them at official ceremonies.

The flag is composed of a tri-band design: white, blue, and yellow. Each band is vertical and of equal width. The three colors of the flag symbolize peace (white), the ocean (blue), and the sun (yellow).

At its center (on the blue band) sits the national emblem: two feral dogs supporting a shield displaying the seven principal islands of the archipelago. The shield is crowned with a red and gold royal crown. Above it all appears a silver scroll bearing the word "Océano."

Other National Emblems

• The Canary Island dog: a lean canine with brown fur, renowned as a skilled hunter
• The Canary finch or "serinus canaria": a small bird with yellow and brown plumage
• The "phoenix canariensis" or Canary Island palm: resembling a date palm (the false date palm of the Canaries)

National Holidays in the Canary Islands

During major celebrations, the Canarian flag is proudly displayed and the national anthem of the Canaries, the "Himno de Canarias," is sung.

• Canary Islands Day or the great festival of the islands: May 30
• National Day of Spain: October 12
• Spanish Constitution Day: December 6