The largest Carnival in the world happens every year in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. This famous street festival is held every year before Lent and sees about two million people per day on the streets. Numerous cities claim to be the world’s second-largest Carnival from London to New Orleans. It does not matter which one you attend because no matter what country or city you find yourself in, the carnival is sure to be a good time.
Another spot that claims to hold the second-largest Carnival festival is Tenerife, Spain in the Canary Islands. Here are some fun facts about Tenerife’s annual Carnival celebration and how you can be prepared for your first Carnival experience.
Location, Location, Location
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, commonly known as the Carnival of Tenerife, is one of the world’s most renowned and vibrant Carnivals. Held annually in the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain, this Carnival attracts visitors from around the globe.
History
The origins of the Carnival date back to the 17th century when it was celebrated by European settlers. (Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival started back in 1723!) Over the years, Carnival has evolved into an elaborate and grand festival. The Carnival of Tenerife usually takes place in February and lasts for several weeks making it a constant party for almost an entire month. This year, Carnival begins on Friday, January 25, 2025, and will last until Sunday, March 9, 2025.
International Recognition
The Carnival of Tenerife is widely recognized as one of the world’s top Carnivals, often compared to the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro. Each year, it attracts media attention and tourists from around the world.
Costumes
Nestled in the Canary Islands of Spain, Tenerife holds an annual Carnival every year with a different and specific theme. Locals and visitors alike go all out in creating elaborate costumes that align with the chosen theme. Costumes are often colourful, imaginative, and intricate, ultimately contributing to the Carnival’s overall festive atmosphere and vibe. Groups also create one-of-a-kind floats to resemble the annual theme as well. In recent years, themes have included “Television,” while this year in 2025 the theme is “Secrets of Africa.” Attendees are also encouraged to dress the part as well. Channel the vibes of the theme and create a one-of-a-kind costume for the event. You can also wear any costume you like as pretty much anything goes for carnival.
Insider Tip: Be sure to plan your outfit around closed-toed shoes. There are so many people around you walking to different parts of the event that you do not want your toes to get squished or stepped on. Trust us, if you have a pretty neat costume no one will be looking at your walking shoes.
Opening Parade
The Carnival kicks off with a colourful and lively parade, also known as Cabalgata. It features participants in extravagant costumes, lots of dancing, and music playing in the background. Vendors walk the streets selling beverages, culinary delights, and other festival tchotchkes.
Street Celebrations
Throughout the Carnival, the streets of Santa Cruz come alive with spontaneous celebrations. Think of things like concerts, street parties, and various cultural events. People often gather to celebrate, dance, and enjoy the festivities in a cheerful, fun, and relaxed environment. Locals and visitors alike all come together to join in on the festive atmosphere. It is one giant party.
Group Performances
Murgas are musical groups that perform satirical songs and skits during Carnival, while Comparsas are troupes with colourful costumes and dances. Both groups participate in competitions during the annual Carnival celebration which official judges judge and score. These competitions are a very big deal to participants and Carnival attendees.
The Queen’s Gala
The Queen’s Gal (Gala de la Reina) is part of Tenerife’s Carnival and is an event that showcases the candidates for the Carnival Queen. The winner is selected based on beauty, elegance, and stage presence.
Election of the Carnival Queen
The election and crowning of the Carnival Queen is a major highlight of Tenrife’s Carnival. The Carnival Queen becomes the symbolic figurehead of all of the Carnival festivities for that entire year until it is time to crown a Carnival queen the next year. It is a very coveted and prestigious position. Contestants dress in elaborate costumes often weighing several hundred kilograms and showcase their outfits in a dazzling display of creativity and craftsmanship. They are all truly works of art.
Family-Friendly
During the annual Carnival celebration, family-friendly events take place during the day, including activities, music, and parades that are suitable for all ages, kiddos included. This is known as the Daytime Carnival or Carnaval de Día.
All Are Welcome
Tenerife’s annual Carnival is not only a significant cultural event for locals, but it is also a major attraction for tourists who want to experience the island’s dynamic and vibrant culture. The combination of a festive atmosphere, creative costumes, and lively music makes Tenerife’s Carnival a memorable celebration for everyone involved. From locals to tourists, it is a sight to be seen by all and is something you should try and witness at least once in your lifetime.
Until Next Year
Symbolizing the end of the Carnival, a mock funeral procession is held, and a giant sardine effigy is “buried” festively and humorously. This is known as the Burial of the Sardine or Entierro de la Sardina. There is also a Closing Parade or Coso Apoteosis, which concludes the annual event with a spectacular closing parade featuring all kinds of floats, participants, and performances.
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