Canary Islands
Carnival Tenerife
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🎭 One of the world’s biggest carnivals
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Held in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
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Famous for parades, music, and costumes
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A top winter tourism event in Europe
Tenerife Carnival 2026 – Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The Tenerife Carnival is one of the largest and most spectacular carnivals in the world, held every year in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital city.
Often compared to the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, it attracts thousands of visitors from the UK and across Europe.
Taking place over several weeks, the carnival features colourful parades, live music, extravagant costumes and vibrant street celebrations, making it one of the top events in Tenerife.
What is the Tenerife Carnival?
The Tenerife Carnival is a world-famous cultural festival celebrated on the Canary Island of Tenerife, Spain.
It is known for:
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Grand parades through Santa Cruz
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Latin music and dance performances
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Lavish costumes and themed floats
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A festive atmosphere across the entire city
The event is officially recognised as a Festival of International Tourist Interest.
Main Carnival Parades with Organised Bus Tours
Organised bus tours with a professional guide are available for the two biggest carnival events:
These tours are especially popular with visitors staying in southern Tenerife and Puerto de la Cruz.
Grand Finale Parade
Coso Apoteosis
17 February 2026
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Coso Apoteosis is the main and final parade of the Tenerife Carnival, marking the spectacular conclusion of the official celebrations.
Bus transfer to Carnival Parade in Santa Cruz
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17/02/2026
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From South ~ 12:30
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From Puerto de la Cruz ~ 13:30
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To Santa Cruz ↔ return
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Return from Santa Cruz ~ 23:30
* The exact time depends on your hotel
Rhythm and Harmony
Ritmo y Armonía
14 February 2026
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The Rhythm and Harmony Parade is one of the most anticipated events of the Tenerife Carnival.
It takes place before the grand finale and focuses on dance competitions between comparsa groups, showcasing rhythm, coordination and creativity.
Bus transfer to Carnival Parade concert
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14/02/2026
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From South ~ 17:00 - 18:00
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Parade opening ~ 19:00
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To Santa Cruz ↔ return
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Return from Santa Cruz ~ 23:30
* The exact time depends on your hotel
Why visitors love this parade:
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Latin-inspired music and powerful rhythms
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Spectacular costumes with feathers and vibrant colours
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Highly synchronised dance performances
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Energetic atmosphere throughout Santa Cruz streets
It perfectly sets the mood for the carnival’s main finale.
Important Tips for Carnival Visitors
Planning ahead is essential, as the Tenerife Carnival attracts very large crowds.
Things to keep in mind:
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Parking: Many streets are closed on parade days. Parking is limited and fills quickly.
👉 We strongly recommend using organised coach transport instead of driving. -
Food & Drinks: Santa Cruz offers plenty of restaurants, cafés and street food stalls selling snacks, drinks, churros and traditional Canarian food.
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Bring Your Own: Many visitors bring their own food and drinks to avoid queues and enjoy the parade picnic-style.
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Weather: Evenings can be cooler. A light jacket is recommended.
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Crowds: Expect heavy crowds, especially along the parade route. Keep personal belongings secure.
Tenerife Carnival 2026 – Event Dates
🎭 Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival 2026 – “Latin Rhythms” (Ritmos Latinos)
The 2026 theme celebrates Latin American music and dance, including samba, salsa, merengue and bachata.
Carnival dates:
📅 31 January – 1 March 2026
Key events:
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Carnival Queen Election – 11 February 2026
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Opening Parade – 13 February 2026
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Rhythm & Harmony Parade – 14 February 2026
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Grand Finale Parade (Coso Apoteosis) – 17 February 2026
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Burial of the Sardine – 18 February 2026
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Daytime Carnival – 21 February 2026
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Piñata Sunday – 1 March 2026