Carnival in Spain: An explosion of colour, passion and tradition
If you have ever dreamed of a party where the music never stops, the costumes dazzle and good mood is the only rule, then Spain’s carnivals are waiting for you!
Carnival is much more than a party, it is an explosion of identity, culture and fun that transforms the streets into authentic stages.
Our Spanish school El Rincón del Tándem, tells you about some of the most emblematic carnivals in Spain:
1. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival(Canary Islands)
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is considered one of the best in the world. Its main event is the election of the Carnival Queen, where the candidates wear impressive costumes weighing more than 100 kilos adorned with feathers and rhinestones.
In addition, the city vibrates with the comparsas, the music and the Drag Queens Gala, one of the most acclaimed for its creativity.
2. Cádiz Carnival (Andalucía)
If laughter and wit are your thing, the Cadiz Carnival is the perfect event. With its chirigotas, comparsas and choirs, the city becomes a stage for satire and humour, where the lyrics criticise current political and social issues.
There is no costume too eccentric or joke too daring in this festival that is lived with intensity in every corner of the city.
3. Águilas Carnival (Murcia)
Declared of International Tourist Interest, the Águilas Carnival is one of the most original celebrations in Spain.
The highlight is the Battle between Don Carnal and Doña Cuaresma, a theatrical performance that symbolises the struggle between debauchery and moderation.
In addition, the attendees enjoy the peculiar tradition of throwing “cascarones” (eggs filled with confetti).
4. Sitges Carnival (Catalonia)
The Sitges Carnival has a strong inclusive character and is one of the biggest LGTBIQ+ celebrations in Spain. Its night-time parades are full of spectacular floats, extravagant costumes and energetic performances.
5. Badajoz Carnival (Extremadura)
The Badajoz Carnival stands out for the great participation of the people in its murgas and comparsas. The whole city dresses up and immerses itself in the party, with group competitions that are full of originality and good humour.
Dates
The dates of the carnivals in Spain vary each year, as they are held before the beginning of Lent. Specifically, the dates of the most emblematic carnivals in Spain in 2025 are:
1. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival: The festivities begin on the 3s1st of January 2025 and run until the 9th of March 2025. The main events, such as the Queen’s Election Gala, will be held on the 26th of February, and the Announcement Parade will take place on the 28 of February.
2. Cádiz Carnival: From the 27th of February to the 9th of March 2025.
3. Águilas Carnival: From the 27th of February to the 9th of March 2025.
4. Sitges Carnival: Although the exact dates for 2025 have not yet been confirmed, traditionally, the Sitges Carnival is held in the same period as other carnivals in Spain, i.e. at the end of February and beginning of March.
5. Badajoz Carnival: From the 27th of February to the 9th of March 2025.
There is no better way to get to know the festive and creative essence of Spain than by experiencing its Carnival.
Each city offers a unique experience, from the creativity of Tenerife to the humour of Cadiz.
And if you’re learning Spanish, what better way to practice while enjoying these unique celebrations?
We are sure that if we could, we would go to all of them, but what about you, which one do you choose?
Our Spanish language school El Rincón del Tándem wish you a Happy Carnival!
