Canary Islands
Karnival
The Tenerife Carnival is one of the world's largest and most spectacular carnivals, and it is held annually in Spain's Canary Islands – Tenerife. Its main hub is the island's capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The carnival is a weeks-long celebration featuring vibrant parades, music, masks, and costumes, attracting thousands of visitors from around the globe.
It is often compared to the famous Rio de Janeiro Carnival and is a popular national tourism destination in Spain.
Bus tours with a guide are organized for the two main carnival events:
✓ 1/3/2025 Rhythm and Harmony parade
✓ 4/3/2025 Carnival Closing parade
Rhythm and Harmony
The Rhythm and Harmony parade (Ritmo y Armonía) is one of the most anticipated events of the Tenerife Carnival, showcasing the vibrant spirit and energy of the celebration.
This parade takes place before the grand finale and features dance troupes, or comparsas, competing against one another in dazzling performances of choreography, music, and rhythm.
It is characterized by the infectious beats of Latin-inspired music, elaborate costumes adorned with feathers and sequins, and the performers' synchronized movements, all designed to captivate the crowd.
Held on the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the event creates a festive atmosphere that immerses locals and visitors in the dynamic energy of the carnival. It's a true highlight that sets the stage for the grand conclusion of the carnival.
Closing Parade
Coso Apoteosis
The Coso Apoteosis (Closing Parade) is the grand finale of the Tenerife Carnival, held on the last official day of the celebration in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This spectacular parade is a vibrant and emotional culmination of weeks of festivities, drawing large crowds of locals and visitors.
✓ The Carnival Queen and her court take center stage, riding through the streets in magnificent, intricately designed floats. Their elaborate costumes, adorned with feathers, rhinestones, and sequins, are a highlight of the parade.
✓ Dozens of Themed Floats parade through the city, each decorated to align with the carnival's annual theme, creating a moving display of creativity and artistry.
✓ Energetic Dance Troupes (Comparsas) perform choreographed routines to lively Latin rhythms, accompanied by vibrant costumes that reflect the carnival’s colorful themes. Satirical singing groups (Murgas) and brass bands add humor, music, and playful commentary, entertaining the crowd with their performances.
✓ Final Festive Atmosphere. The parade is accompanied by music, confetti, and an atmosphere of joy, bringing the streets of Santa Cruz to life. It is a bittersweet celebration that marks the end of the carnival, concluding with Fireworks or additional festivities. The Coso Apoteosis is not just a parade but a cultural spectacle, showcasing the passion and dedication of Tenerife’s people to their beloved carnival tradition.
What to consider?
When visiting the events of the carnival, it’s essential to plan due to the large crowds and festive atmosphere. Here are some considerations:
-
Parking Challenge: On the day of the parade, many streets are closed for the event, and parking spots fill up quickly. It's advisable to arrive early if you plan to come by car.
-
Restaurants and Street Vendors: Santa Cruz has numerous restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy a meal or drinks. The parade route is lined with food stalls and street vendors selling a variety of snacks, sandwiches, churros, and traditional Canarian treats.
-
Bringing Your Own: Many attendees bring their food and drinks to avoid queues and enjoy a picnic-style experience while watching the parade.
-
Weather: Tenerife’s weather is generally pleasant, but evenings can get cool. Bring a light jacket for late events.
-
Crowds: Expect large crowds, especially in prime viewing spots. Keep an eye on your belongings to avoid losing items in the excitement.
Carnival Bus
Tenerife Carnival 2025
2025 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival theme is Secrets of Africa.
This theme will influence the design of costumes, floats, and various events throughout the carnival, infusing the festivities with African-inspired elements and aesthetics.
Carnival is scheduled from January 31st to March 9th, 2025
✓ Carnival Queen's Gala on February 26, 2025.
✓ Opening Parade on February 28, 2025.
✓ Rhythm and Harmony Parade on March 1, 2025.
✓ Coso Apotheosis (Main Parade) on March 4, 2025.
✓ Burial of the Sardine on March 5, 2025.
✓ Daytime Carnival on March 8, 2025.
✓ Piñata Sunday on March 9, 2025.