The Best Carnivals In Spain

This tradition, which dates back to the Middle Ages and is present in the lives of all Spaniards (no matter where they live), is really very beautiful to witness. Carnivals in Spain are a combination of Christian and pagan celebrations and take place 45 days before Easter. Would you like to know the most beautiful and representative of the country? In this article we will tell you about them!

The best carnivals in Spain

If you are thinking of spending a few different days in February, you cannot miss the magic, music and dance of the most impressive carnivals in Spain :

1. Cadiz

The Andalusian city dresses up for the occasion and everyone comes to the party to see the talent of the people of Cadiz in celebrating one of the most famous carnivals in Spain and in the world. So much so that it has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest.

The “silver cup” is prepared with its choirs, quartets, comparsas and chirigotas to show everyone the best of themselves. The wit is also mixed with criticism and humor for the audience.

In addition, the Official Competition of Carnival Groups (COAC) is held to reward the best artists in Cádiz. As if that were not enough, during a full week the festivities are carried out with the soundtracks in the middle of the street.

2. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The costume contest, the murgas (those street groups that satirize politicians), the rondallas and the comparsas are the main ingredients of the carnival festivities in this Canarian city.

In addition, there is a parade with costumes that will blow your mind. Santa Catalina is the venue chosen for years to choose and enjoy the “Queen’s Gala”. It is a tradition in the area that men dress up as women on Ash Wednesday.

3. Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Another of the most popular nationally and worldwide for having magnificent celebrations. The Spanish Ministry of Tourism indicates with great pride that it is the second most important carnival on the planet after that of Rio de Janeiro (Brazil).

The celebrations take place for a whole week and the main dishes are the rondallas, the comparsas and the murgas, but above all the Caribbean style of music. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife there are 2 carnivals: the official one (where 100 groups participate) and the street one (the same groups share their joy with the people and in the open air).

The queen of the carnival is chosen on Wednesday, the full dance is on Saturday and everything ends with the Gran Coso Apotheosis. It is a parade that crosses the entire city.

4. Badajoz

It is listed as one of the carnivals in Spain with the greatest presence and participation of residents and tourists. But also for the members of his troupes! Some groups gather up to 100 people, all in their original costumes. The murgas are made up of up to 15 people with their instruments to sing songs that narrate the events of the last year.

In the surroundings of the city we can also enjoy other smaller celebrations such as those that take place in the towns of Barcarrota, Santa Marta, Montijo and Talavera La Real.

5. Águilas (Murcia)

The biggest celebration of the entire Murcian community is here. It has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest and its windows are always very attractive. The multiple events that take place in Águilas will make you breathe carnival air for 10 days in a row.

The first Saturday is the turn of the battle between Don Carnal and Doña Cuaresma in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. The closing is one of the most anticipated moments because it includes not only a festive and colorful atmosphere but also the burning of Don Carnal (because Dona Cuaresma wins the fight).

6. Tarragona

The festivities or carnestoltes are held for a whole week and include much, much fire. On Thursday cocas are distributed and on Friday the reu carnestoltes gives the sermon. The next day the comparsas and masquerades go through the Rambla Nova.

And the festivities continue in a more than bulky agenda : Tuesday concentration of timbales, bmbos and caixes, testament of King Carnestoltes for Lucifer, parades through the streets and performance of the dimonis with fireworks and rockets.

Start organizing your carnival trip right now and experience it in a different and unforgettable way!