Discover Carnival: From Rio de Janeiro to the Canary Islands
Carnival, a celebration known worldwide, takes place not only in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Colorful carnival parades also take place in our own cities from February to the end of March. During your vacation, we definitely recommend the vibrant Carnival in the Canary Islands. From 1521 until today, this great carnival is considered a festival of tourist and national importance in Gran Canaria. Carnival in Tenerife and Gran Canaria lasts for 4 weeks during the months of January and February.
Carnival of Gran Canaria: Discover the festive spectacle in Las Palmas
In all the Canary Islands, Carnival is one of the most important events of the year. The biggest carnival festival in Gran Canaria takes place in Las Palmas, a tradition that dates back to the oldest celebrations in the city’s history. In 2011, Las Palmas carnival was even recognized as a“Tourist Festival de Canarias“. (Continue reading below the photos)
During this period you can enjoy colorful parades and glamorous galas, including the‘Gala de Elección de la Reina‘ and the famous‘Gala de Elección del Drag Queen del Carnaval‘, which was the first in Spain in 1998. No Carnival without music, especially the Ritmo de Batucada is known worldwide for its rousing rhythms.
The festivities spread throughout the city, but the epicenter of carnival in Las Palmas is the bustling Parque Santa Catalina. Gran Canaria and Las Palmas locals take part in the celebrations en masse.
Important highlights of the carnival include the Grand Parade (Gran Cabalgata), Los Mogollones and the traditional “burial” of the sardine (Entierro de la Sardina), symbols of the festive nature and cultural richness of this unique event in Gran Canaria.
There are many groups that participate in the carnival. One of the most important groups iis this one of“Poligono de San Cristóbal“. This carnival group continues to exist partly because of the annual addition of new children to the group. Thus, its future is assured. There are a total of 30 parts under Fantasia Caprichos de Carnaval.
The Carnival in Gran Canaria: A Magical Parade through Las Palmas
The Grand Parade takes place every year on the Saturday after the conclusion of the two Galas. About 200 000 spectators visit this Great Carnival Parade that passes through the streets of Las Palmas.
The parade is naturally accompanied by the Queens of Carnival accompanied by brilliantly dressed gentlemen, ladies and children. Due in part to the warm temperatures on the island, the ladies are sometimes scantily and sensually dressed. Beautifully decorated floats then add an extra touch to the carnival.
Source : Canarias7
The spectacular parade stretches over 7 kilometers, from the Castillo de la Luz through Parque San Telmo right through the city, past the heart of the carnival at Parque Santa Catalina to Teatro Perez Galdos.
Each carnival group and float is carefully judged by a jury and then receives a prize. Not to be missed is the day before the Grand Parade, when children star in the Cabalgata Infantil, a colorful parade especially for and with children.
The beautiful costumes and masks play a central role during the carnival. These creations add color to the whole festivity. It is interesting to know that these costumes are presented during the“Carnival Fashion Week“, held in September and October. Here various associations and designers display their designs, which can be ordered and purchased just like at a fashion show. It is a thriving industry with many people working year-round.
Mogollones and Theme nights
During the carnival period, many people celebrate during 5 nights in the city. These celebrations are called the“Mogollones“. The terraces and streets are then crowded with students, gays and other partygoers. There is then a lot of music and dancing such as a“Noche de la Salsa“
Photo: Sabrina Ceballos
Closing the Carnival
Carnival concludes on Ash Wednesday according to an ancient tradition. The burial of the Sardien ( El Entierro de la Sardina ). This burning can also be found at the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and in mainland Spain.
The funeral procession of the Sardien also passes through the city of Las Palmas where it passes important points of the carnival. Finally, the Sardien is placed on a raft and burned at sea. The carnival is then finally concluded with a grand fireworks display.
Practical information about Carnival de Las Palmas
I can imagine that sooner or later you will also want to see Las Palmas Carnival once. Due to the mass of visitors, I can recommend that you book your trip early. Booking six months to one year in advance is definitely recommended. You can find the exact dates and program on the official website about carnival in Las Palmas. ( Available only in Spanish and English )
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Have you been to Carnival in Gran Canaria? We would love to hear about your adventures and recommendations! Your insights help us keep our tourism page updated and improved. Whether you’ve discovered a hidden gem, found a great restaurant or have tips for other travelers, your feedback is invaluable. Share your experiences and suggestions with us verschueren.eddy@gmail.com and help others get the most out of their visit to this beautiful island. Together we will create the ultimate guide to Gran Canaria!