Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival 2025 in Canary Islands

The Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival is one of Spain’s most vibrant and popular cultural events, drawing visitors from around the world. Known for its dazzling costumes, infectious energy, and unique traditions, the carnival transforms the city into an epicenter of celebration and creativity. This annual event celebrates the Canarian spirit, blending centuries-old customs with modern entertainment.

The roots of the Las Palmas Carnival trace back to the 16th century, brought by Spanish settlers who introduced their European pre-Lenten festivities to the Canary Islands. Over time, the carnival has evolved, incorporating African, Caribbean, and Latin American influences, reflecting the islands' multicultural heritage. Despite being banned during the Franco dictatorship, the festival’s traditions were kept alive clandestinely, leading to its grand revival in the late 20th century. Today, it’s a vibrant showcase of the islands' history and cultural resilience.

Carnival Highlights

The carnival features a variety of events, including the Carnival Queen Gala, where elaborate costumes adorned with feathers and sequins are paraded in a dazzling display of creativity and craftsmanship. The Drag Queen Gala is another highlight, celebrating diversity and freedom of expression with bold and theatrical performances. Many of these events take place at Santa Catalina Park, the heart of carnival activities. Las Canteras Beach is the main stage of all the fun and entertainment​. Colorful beach parties with music and sunshine are visited by hundreds of thousands of people.

Comparsas and Murgas Competitions

Two quintessential aspects of the Las Palmas Carnival are the comparsas and murgas competitions. Comparsas are dance troupes that perform lively routines to Afro-Caribbean beats, while murgas are satirical singing groups that entertain crowds with witty songs and humorous commentary on current events. These competitions are held at Santa Catalina Park, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy the captivating performances.

Grand Parade (March 8, 2025)

The Grand Parade is the pinnacle of the Las Palmas Carnival, winding through the city streets in a riot of color and sound. Floats adorned with intricate decorations and participants in extravagant costumes dance to live music as thousands of spectators line the route. Taking place during the last weekend of the celebration, the colorful procession covers over 4 miles (7 km) throughout the city, moving from La Isleta to Triana. The parade features over 200,000 Mascaritas or masked participants and about a hundred festooned cars and floats. The parade is led by the Queen, the Drag Queen, and the Grand Dame, accompanied by music bands, dancers, and more.

Nights of Carnival

For those who want to dance the night away, the Nights of Carnival events are not to be missed. Held in various open-air venues around the city, these parties feature live bands, DJs, and a euphoric atmosphere. The streets of Las Palmas come alive as revelers celebrate together, embracing the freedom and fun of carnival season.

The Grand Finale: Burial of the Sardine (March 16, 2025)

The festival concludes with the whimsical and symbolic Burial of the Sardine, held on Las Canteras Beach. This satirical ceremony involves a mock funeral procession where a giant sardine effigy is paraded through the streets before being set ablaze. The event symbolizes the end of carnival and the start of Lent, blending humor and tradition in a fittingly theatrical farewell.

The Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival is a feast for the senses, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Canarian culture, history, and festive joy.