Carnaval de Barcelona 2025

Barcelona Carnival, one of the city’s liveliest and most colorful events showcases a unique blend of tradition and modernity. This week-long celebration transforms the city into a spectacle of parades, music, and dance. Traditionally in Christian countries, the carnival week begins a week before the Lent that leads to Easter. The "last fun" starts on Thursday, the week before the Ash Wednesday. In Barcelona, the carnival week is outrageously full of entertainment and good food! Gear up for parades, masqued balls, parties, gastronomic pleasures, and lots of fun and free activities, happening throughout Barna.

Fat Thursday (February 27, 2025)

The carnival begins with the extravagant arrival of King Carnestoltes, the “King of Carnival,” on Fat Thursday (Jueves Lardero). This event, often staged in the Gothic Quarter and other central areas, kicks off the week with a burst of humor and irreverence as the king’s satirical speech sets the tone for the festivities. Accompanied by his seven ambassadors, King Carnestoltes makes an appearance at Pl. Real and La Rambla at 6 pm. The anticipated parade steps off from La Rambla at 6:45 pm.

La Taronjada (February 28, 2025)

A standout event, La Taronjada, takes place during the weekend in the Born district. This playful “battle of oranges” (now symbolic with confetti and balloons) harks back to medieval times. Families and visitors can enjoy the vibrant spectacle, which combines parades, live performances, and traditional dances.

Carnival Parades (March 1, 2025)

Each district, or "barrio," of Barcelona brings its own flavor to the carnival. Popular areas like Gràcia, Poblenou, and Sants host community parades where locals don elaborate costumes and showcase their creativity. The floats, music, and camaraderie make these neighborhood parades particularly memorable. Many parades snake across the city's streets on Saturday. The largest parade is usually planned in the Gothic Quarter. Great Carnival Street is scheduled for 6 pm from Jardinets de Gracia to Placa de la Vila, where festivities proceed with the confetti battle.

Ash Wednesday: Burial of the Sardine (March 5, 2025)

The carnival concludes with the “Burial of the Sardine” on Ash Wednesday. This satirical ceremony marks the end of the festivities and the beginning of Lent. A mock funeral procession humorously bids farewell to indulgence and welcomes the reflective season ahead, often accompanied by music and theatrical performances. The tradition has it that people bury sardines, which symbolizes the approaching of the Lent. Locals call it "E'Enterro" or "El Entierro", but tourists recognize it as "the burial of the sardine". No wonder most meals served on this day abound with sardines.

Barcelona Carnival promises an unforgettable experience for locals and travelers alike. By watching the parades, tasting local delicacies, and joining the revelry, anyone can feel the vibrant spirit of Barcelona!