Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival 2027

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is widely considered the second most popular carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro and holds the prestigious title of a Festival of International Tourist Interest. Held annually in the capital of Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain) in the weeks leading up to Lent, this world-renowned celebration turns the entire city into an open-air spectacle of rhythm, color, and joyous masquerade.

The festival is divided into two parts: the official stage competitions featuring magnificent musical and dance troupes, followed by the legendary “Street Carnival” where hundreds of thousands of costumed revelers dance through the plazas and avenues until dawn.

Festival Highlights:

• Carnival Queen Gala (Gala de Elección de la Reina): A world-famous televised spectacle where candidates showcase colossal, breathtaking fantasy costumes weighing hundreds of kilograms, adorned with feathers, sequins, and jewels.
• Opening Parade (Cabalgata Anunciadora): The vibrant procession marking the official start of the street festivities, featuring the newly crowned Queen, comparsas (samba groups), murgas (satirical musical groups), and thousands of dancers.
• Daytime Carnival (Carnaval de Día): Massive, family-friendly open-air street parties held on both weekends, filling Plaza de España and Plaza del Príncipe with live Latin concerts, salsa bands, and dancing for all ages.
• The Grand Parade (El Coso Apoteosis): The ultimate climax along the maritime avenue, showcasing the complete lineup of floats, queens, and dance troupes in full regalia.
• Burial of the Sardine (Entierro de la Sardina): A theatrical, tongue-in-cheek funeral procession featuring a giant papier-mâché fish, mourning widows, and a spectacular burning ceremony marking the transition toward Lent.

Tips for Visitors & Trip Planning:

• Dress in Costume: Disguises (disfraces) are practically mandatory for the street carnival. Join in the fun by wearing a costume or festive accessories during evening street parties.
• Getting Around: The Tenerife Tram (Tranvía) operates continuous 24-hour service during major carnival days between Santa Cruz and La Laguna, providing the easiest way to avoid road closures and parking challenges.
• Accommodation: As one of Spain’s biggest international attractions, hotels and apartments in Santa Cruz de Tenerife sell out months in advance. Booking accommodations well ahead of time is vital.

The carnival’s program, venue, lineup information show time / schedule of events, how to get, parking etc. is present in the carnival’s link website. See details below, under “Event Related Information” section.