las Palmas de Gran Canaria will kick off its Carnival celebrations on February 8, marking the start of one of spain’s most vibrant and historic festivals.
Spain’s Carnival Season: A Guide to the Biggest Celebrations
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From ancient traditions to dazzling parades, Spain knows how to throw a party. Here’s where to experience the country’s most spectacular carnivals.
- The Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, one of the oldest in Spain, is poised for international recognition.
- Verín’s Carnival is known for its unique “cigarette” costumes and lively traditions.
- Cadiz Carnival is a city-wide festivity where costumes are practically mandatory.
- Badajoz Carnival has recently been recognized as a Festival of International Tourist Interest.
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is the second most vital carnival in the world,after Rio de Janeiro.
Carnival of Las palmas de Gran Canaria
The Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, boasting over five centuries of history, is nearing recognition as a Festival of International tourist Interest. The festivities officially begin with the opening speech on February 8. Expect a whirlwind of events, starting with the final of the iconic murgas competition, followed by a playful dog carnival the next day. The renowned Drag Queen Gala will also take center stage, culminating in a winners’ parade during the same weekend. The Carnival will draw to a close with the traditional burial of the sardine.
Verín Carnival, in Ourense
Located in the southeast of Ourense, near the Portuguese border, Verín hosts a traditional Galician carnival celebrated throughout northern Spain. The most recognizable symbol is the “cigarette” – a unique costume featuring a short jacket paired with a brightly painted wooden mask. The celebrations begin with Compadres Thursday and Corredoiro Sunday,filled with firecrackers,musical bands,and masked figures. Subsequent days bring dances, including the famous farinada, and Comadres Thursday, dedicated to women in costume. The Carnival procession promises flour battles, parades, dances, competitions, and tastings, leading to the most awaited moment: a grand parade of floats, masks, and cigars at noon on Sunday.
Cadiz Carnival
The Cadiz Carnival is the ultimate expression of a city that fully embraces the spirit of celebration. The sound of the classic carnival whistle, the kazoo, fills the air, and wearing a costume is practically mandatory. The official celebrations, running from February 12 to 22, will feature the famous “chirigotas” competition.
Badajoz Carnival
recently recognized as a Festival of International Tourist Interest, the Badajoz Carnival is a lively street party. Showing up without a costume is almost considered a faux pas-though not strictly forbidden, it’s best to avoid any disapproving glances! The entire celebration is concentrated into five days, from February 13 to 22, 2026.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
No list of Spanish carnivals would be complete without mentioning the second most critically importent carnival in the world, after rio de Janeiro. The vibrant Tenerife Carnival,scheduled from february 16 to 22,promises an explosion of colors,music,and joy. the Santa Cruz de Tenerife carnival program is packed with spectacular parades, murgas and apparel competitions, galas, and parties that energize the island day and night. A highlight is the election of the Queen of Carnival, showcasing remarkable and elaborate costumes. Also unmissable are the great Parade and the poignant Burial of the sardine, which closes the celebrations with a touch of irony and tradition. This overwhelming event transforms Tenerife into a stage of color and music, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
