The carnaval in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the most important and popular events in the Canary Islands. It is a celebration of joy, music, color and creativity that attracts thousands of visitors every year. The carnaval in 2024 will have the theme of “Los Carnavales del Mundo” (Carnavals of the World) and will take place from January 25 to February 18 (with one pre event on Friday the 19th).
New Location
The Carnaval de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 2024 will not take place in Santa Catalina Park, as it has been the traditional location for many years. The reason for this change is that the park is undergoing works for the Metroguagua, a new public transport system that will connect different areas of the city. The works are expected to last until 2025, so the carnival will have to find a new home for at least two editions. The new location for the main events of the carnival is the Isleta neighbourhood, near the port area. The main stage will be set up at the Plaza Belén María, where the galas, contests and concerts will take place. The theme of this edition is “Los Carnavales del Mundo” (Carnivals of the World), so the stage will be decorated with ten fairies representing different carnival cultures from around the world.
What To Expect
- The Adult Costume Competition, where participants show off their original and elaborate costumes.
- The Vegueta Carnaval, a daytime carnaval in the historic district of the city, with live music and street performances.
- The Canine Carnaval and Kid’s Gala, where dogs and children can also enjoy the festive atmosphere and dress up in costumes. Read about the Children’s Parade in 2023
- The Queen Gala, where the candidates for the Queen of the Carnaval parade on a spectacular stage and compete for the crown.
- The Daytime Carnaval in Triana, a family-friendly carnaval in the shopping area of the city, with activities and entertainment for all ages.
- The Children’s Parade, where the youngest ones can show their creativity and enthusiasm in a colorful procession. Read about the Children’s Parade in 2023
- The Traditional Carnaval and Drag Queen Gala, where the most daring and extravagant costumes are displayed and the winner of the Drag Queen of the Carnaval is chosen.
- The Carnaval Tuesday, a public holiday in the city, where people can enjoy the daytime carnaval in Santa Catalina, the main venue of the carnaval.
- The Social Integration Gala, a show that promotes the inclusion and participation of people with disabilities in the carnaval.
- The Body Makeup Contest, where the contestants use their bodies as canvases to create artistic and stunning designs.
- The Big Carnaval Parade, the highlight of the carnaval, where thousands of people join the comparsas (dance groups), murgas (satirical singers) and floats in a festive and lively march through the city. Read more about the parades in 2023.
- The Carnaval Night, where the party continues until dawn in the streets and bars of the city.
- The Burial of the Sardine, the closing ceremony of the carnaval, where a giant sardine is carried in a funeral procession and then burned, symbolizing the end of the festivities and the beginning of Lent.
Conclusion
If you want to experience the carnaval in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in 2024, you should plan your trip in advance and book your accommodation and transportation as soon as possible, as the demand is very high during this period. You should also prepare your costume and join the fun, as the carnaval is a great opportunity to mingle with the locals and enjoy the culture and traditions of the Canary Islands. You can buy costumes at these bazars and shops.
