Tenerife Carnival 2025 – a magical journey into the Canarian tradition
- Jan 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 15
Tenerife Carnival is one of the most spectacular events in Europe, even compared to the famous Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. It attracts both tourists and locals, offering weeks of fun, colorful parades and a unique atmosphere. Check out what to see at Tenerife Carnival and learn about its unique traditions.
The history and traditions of Tenerife's carnival
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival has a long history dating back to the 18th century. Over the years, it has become the most important cultural event on the island and one of the largest carnivals in the world. Traditionally, the carnival begins with the election of the Queen of Carnival, and the main attractions include numerous parades, musical performances and fancy dress competitions. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the true Canarian atmosphere and get to know the culture of Tenerife up close.
The biggest attractions of the Santa Cruz carnival
Choosing the Queen of Carnival – a spectacular gala during which the participants present their impressive costumes, sometimes weighing several kilograms.
Coso Parade – the main carnival parade that takes place in Santa Cruz and attracts thousands of spectators from all over the world. It is a great time to see the most beautiful costumes and feel the true atmosphere of the festival.
The Funeral of the Sardine – a symbolic ending of Carnival, during which a humorous funeral ceremony of a huge effigy of a sardine takes place, burned at the end of the procession. It is an event full of laughter and fun, while at the same time referring to old traditions.
Side events – There are many side events throughout the city, such as outdoor concerts, dance shows and costume contests. There is an amazing atmosphere on the streets – regardless of age, people get to know each other, have fun together and share joy. It is a true celebration of community and fun, where everyone is welcome.
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2025 Carnival runs from January 31 to March 9, 2025. Details of the biggest events can be found below.
Santa Cruz Carnival 2025
January 31 (Friday) : Opening of the carnival at the Auditorio de Tenerife (9:30 p.m.)
February 14 (Friday) : Final of the "Murgas" competition for adults
February 15 (Saturday) : Music groups competition
February 16 (Sunday) : Election of the Children's Queen of Carnival
February 22 (Saturday) : Competition of dance groups "Comparsas"
February 26 (Wednesday) : Gala to select the 2025 Carnival Queen
February 28 (Friday) : Carnival procession and the beginning of the street carnival
March 1 (Saturday) : Street carnival and rhythm and harmony competition
March 2 (Sunday) : "Carnaval de Día" - great fun for the whole family
Monday, March 3rd : Big street festival in Santa Cruz
March 4 (Tuesday) : Great carnival parade "Apotheosis of Carnival" (from 1:00 p.m.)
March 5 (Wednesday) : Funeral of Sardine (from 10:00 p.m.)
March 8 (Saturday) : "Carnaval de Día" - a festival for the whole family
March 9 (Sunday) : Fireworks show and end of the Santa Cruz Carnival
Carnival in Puerto de la Cruz - an alternative to Santa Cruz
If you’re looking for a more intimate atmosphere, Puerto de la Cruz is the place to go. The city’s Carnival also offers a range of attractions, including parades and costume contests, but it’s a more laid-back experience. It’s a great way to experience authentic Tenerife and its local traditions.
Puerto de la Cruz Carnival 2025
February 27 (Thursday) : Election of the 2025 Carnival Queen
March 1 (Saturday) : The ceremonial procession opening the street carnival
March 2 (Sunday) : Family Carnival and Costume Contest at Plaza del Charco
March 3 (Monday) : Street festival with music and dancing
March 5 (Wednesday) : Funeral of the Sardine - exhibition of the effigy and a grand parade with its subsequent burning
March 6 (Thursday) : Traditional welcome of the German carnival delegation
March 7 (Friday) : Race in high heels ("Mascarita Ponte Tacón") - start at 8:00 p.m. at Plaza del Charco
March 8 (Saturday) : "Apotheosis of Carnival" parade (from 5:00 p.m.), and in the evening a grand carnival ball
March 9 (Sunday) : Piñata Dance – a dance farewell to carnival
If you are visiting the southwest of the island during this time and don't want to go to the capital, there will also be a carnival in Los Gigantes from March 13 to 23, 2025 .
Unfortunately, I don't know the programme of events.
Practical information for visitors
Transport: The best way to get to Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz is by public transport. During Carnival, there are special bus routes. Driving is also an option, but parking may be a problem.
Accommodation: It is worth booking your accommodation well in advance, because during the carnival, hotels and apartments are very popular. Just before the event, you will find individual rental offers, but they can be very expensive. I recommend checking Booking or AirBnb .
Why is it worth visiting Carnival in Tenerife?
Carnival in Tenerife is not only fun, but also a great opportunity to get to know the Canarian climate and culture of the island. It is one of those events that remain in the memory for a long time thanks to its unique atmosphere, colors and joy.
It is worth emphasizing that carnival is, above all, an opportunity to have fun, offering something for everyone – from traditional murgas competitions to modern dance shows.
A large part of the program is devoted to various competitions, in which both children and adults participate. The preparations for the carnival involve residents of the city of all ages. There is a unique atmosphere of fun, joy and community .
Music plays a key role during carnival. You can hear both traditional rhythms and modern songs. Carnival participants present beautiful, very creative, unique costumes and it is difficult to meet a person in everyday clothes on the street,
If you are interested in authentic Tenerife and its traditions, Carnival is a must-see on any visit to the island.
P.S. I didn't find any official videos from Carnival 2024, but on YT you can find amateur videos that capture the authentic atmosphere of the event.
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