The carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the largest event of this kind happening in the Canary Islands and in Spain as well. It is actually the second largest carnival in the world and it is considered by many the best carnival, with the best atmosphere and friendly street parties.
On this page
- Tenerife Carnival 2023 dates: 20 January - 26 February
- Main celebrations at Tenerife Carnival 2023
- Theme for the 2023 Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Tenerife Carnival 2023 Poster
- How to Celebrate the Carnival in Tenerife
- Tenerife Carnival Queen
- Provisional schedule of events for Tenerife Carnival 2023
- Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2023
- Street Carnival in Santa Cruz (Carnaval en la Calle)
- Tenerife Carnival theme
- Costume ideas for Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
- Our impressions of Tenerife Carnival
- Tenerife Carnival Hospital (First Aid)
- Transport - How to get around the carnival
Tenerife Carnival 2023 dates: 20 January - 26 February
The dates for the 2023 edition of the Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife have already been announced, as it seems that the events will start on 20 January 2023, just two weeks after the big Three Kings Parade.
Main celebrations at Tenerife Carnival 2023
- 15 February 2023 - the Queen's Gala
- 17 February 2023 - The Opening Parade of the Carnival
- 21 February 2022 - the Big Carnival Parade in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Other important events at the Carnival in Tenerife are the Opening Day of the Carnival, the celebrations of the Daytime carnivals and the Rhythm & Harmony Party.
February 21st, 2023 has been set as a holiday date in Tenerife, which is the date when the main big parade in Santa Cruz de Tenerife will take place.
Theme for the 2023 Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The theme for the 2023 Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife will be NEW YORK.
Tenerife Carnival 2023 Poster
There's no poster yet for the 2023 edition of the Tenerife Carnival.
We will update this section as soon as it will be announced.
How to Celebrate the Carnival in Tenerife
The first thing you need to understand about the carnival if that this is a big celebration, comprised of several types of events, which take place over the duration of a month.
For example, at first, you have several events for the Election of the Tenerife Carnival Queen, then you have an Opening Parade (Announcement Parade), several days of street parties in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, followed by the big Carnival Parade (Coso de Carnaval) and the Burial of the Sardine.
If you want to celebrate like the locals, then you have to participate in at least one night of carnival parties and at least one Daytime Carnival in Santa Cruz, also known as the Sábado de Piñata.
The Daytime Carnival is the event that draws the largest crowds of people to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, to celebrate the carnival all day long - it is estimated that in 2019, there were 400 000 people celebrating the carnival on the streets of Santa Cruz, which would mean a world record for the largest gathering of people watching a concert in a public square.
Tenerife Carnival Queen
The carnival in Tenerife usually has several candidates for the title of Carnival Queen, for all three categories: Carnival Queen - the phase for Young adults, candidates for Elderly Queen and candidates for the kids' Queen.
Provisional schedule of events for Tenerife Carnival 2023
The most important events happen on the streets when the big parties take place and the city center of Santa Cruz comes to life every day and night with music and dancing.
Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2023
Friday, January 20
- Carnival Opening Gala
Thursday, January 26
- First phase of the Children's Murgas Contest
Friday, January 27
- Second phase of the Children's Murgas Contest
Saturday, January 28
- Third phase of the Children's Murgas Contest
Sunday, January 29
- Choreographic Festival
Monday, January 30
- First phase of the Adult Murgas Contest
Tuesday, January 31
- Second phase of the Adult Murgas Contest
Wednesday, February 1
- Third phase of the Adult Murgas Contest
Friday, February 3
- Final of the Adult Murgas Contest
Saturday, February 4
- Musical Groups Contest
Sunday, February 5
- Children's Queen Election Gala
Wednesday, February 8
- Senior Gala
Friday, February 10
- Laughing Song
Saturday, February 11
- Comparsa Contest
Sunday, February 12
- Costume contest
- Rondalles Contest
Wednesday, February 15
- Carnival Queen Election Gala
Friday, February 17
- Announcer Cavalcade
Saturday, February 18
- Rhythm and Harmony Contest
Sunday, February 19
- Daytime carnival
Tuesday, February 21
- Coso Apotheosis - Big Carnival Parade at Tenerife Carnival 2023
Wednesday, February 22
- Burial of the Sardine
Saturday, February 25
- Daytime carnival
Sunday, February 26
- Piñata and End of Party
Street Carnival in Santa Cruz (Carnaval en la Calle)
These are the events that happen on the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and they are actually the heart and soul of the carnival, with big street parties where large crowds of people come together to celebrate the joy of the carnival.
Tenerife Carnival theme
Each year the carnival has a different theme, which is selected by online popular vote by the public.
The period for online voting has recently ended and the proposal that got the most votes was "New York", so the 2023 Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife will be dedicated to the city that never sleeps.
- What to do in Tenerife - Our top recommendations
Costume ideas for Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
Costumes at the Carnival in Tenerife
GOT fans in Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
Many costumes inspired by TV shows at Tenerife carnival
"Freddie" on the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
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Wondering what to wear to the carnival in Tenerife?
Most of the participants to the carnival in Tenerife will be wearing a costume, and it is highly advisable that you get one as well! It doesn't have to be anything fancy or complicated, a simple wig with some funny sunglasses or a hat will do.
Most of the locals will be dressed in costumes during the street parties, so if you want to blend in, you should try to be prepared. A lot of Chinese shops and supermarkets will sell different types of costumes during the carnival season, so it will not be difficult to find something simple and cheap.
During the parades, people don't tend to come dressed in costumes, but they will definitely be wearing costumes during streets parties like the Daytime carnival.
The Burial of the Sardine is another special day when participants come dressed up as "widows" of the sardine, mourning the poor sardine. So, if you want to be prepared, wear something black, like a black dress (men and women alike!), a veil and even a hat. This event tends to have sexual connotations, so don't be surprised when you see some extravagant costumes on the streets of Santa Cruz!
Our impressions of Tenerife Carnival
We have been to the big Carnival of Tenerife in 2019 and we must admit that we had a better time than we expected.
Since we are not big fans of large crowd gatherings, we thought that we would not enjoy the experience, but we're glad to say that we were wrong and that we absolutely loved every minute of the carnival in Tenerife!
We first went to the Announcement Parade, which took place on a Friday evening and then continued throughout the night with a big party. At this event, there were mostly locals and very few tourists, so it's a good opportunity to see the authentic atmosphere of the Tenerife Carnival.
Although we were a bit afraid of the big crowds, we must say that there was ample space since the parade goes through several long boulevards, so you can pick a less crowded spot along the way.
Regarding safety, although there was a lot of drinking involved, we must say that we never felt unsafe, as there were a lot of Police present everywhere and people were generally friendly, with everyone minding their own business. This might not be the case on every night of the carnival in Tenerife, but we never felt unsafe while we were there.
We went to all the different stages in the city centre, which had different types of music and atmosphere, but we preferred the vibe in Plaza de la Candelaria.
We really liked the Opening parade of the carnival in Tenerife and we would recommend it to anyone (although the big parade before Ash Wednesday is larger and much more popular).
Honestly, the carnival in Santa Cruz was so much fun and we are planning to return for another edition since we did not get to attend in all the events and we'd also like to come better prepared with costumes next time!
Tenerife Carnival Hospital (First Aid)
You must know that there is a big carnival hospital set-up close to the main area of the carnival, so in case you feel sick you can ask around about directions.We were impressed to see how big this area was and it's a good thing that they are able to provide immediate assistance to people who need it.
Transport - How to get around the carnival
Most of the city centre will be blocked and closed to car traffic, so we would advise you to avoid coming by car in the centre area. Instead, you can use public transport and we have a dedicated article for how to get around the carnival in Santa Cruz.
Coming to the island for the big Carnival and wondering how the weather will be?
Read more about Tenerife in June, including info about temperatures and what clothes you should bring with you.
Find the best place to stay in Tenerife when planning your holiday during the carnival.
FAQs
What date is the carnival in Tenerife? ›
| 2016 | Feb 09 | Feb 13 |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Feb 28 | Mar 04 |
| 2018 | Feb 13 | Feb 17 |
| 2019 | Mar 05 | Mar 09 |
| 2020 | Feb 25 | Feb 29 |
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is the most “Brazilian” of all the Spanish carnivals, and it is famous all over the world for its popular flavour. For fifteen days, the streets of the city come alive with joie de vivre, freedom and extravagance.
Where is the carnival in Tenerife? ›The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Spanish: Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife) is held each February in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the largest island of the Canary Islands, Spain and attracts people from all over the world. Celebration prior to fasting season of Lent.
Is Tenerife Carnival free? ›Tickets for Tenerife Carnival
Most of the events at Tenerife Carnival are free to attend. Most of the parties occur on the streets and there are loads of open-air free concerts. If you want to watch some of the competitions, then you will need tickets for these.
Despite January being the coldest and wettest month of the year in Tenerife, it is still a good month to visit the island if you are looking for winter sun.
What is the best time to visit Tenerife? ›Average monthly temperatures
For the highest temperatures the best time to visit Tenerife is between June and September although the sub tropical climate offers sunshine throughout the year and winter months are equally popular with visitors.
The Queen's Competition will be held at the Tenerife Trade Fair Centre. January 18, 2022. The City Council of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has decided to postpone the celebration of the carnival, presumably from 4 to 26 June.
What festival is on in Tenerife? ›| Date | Public holiday (spanish designation) |
|---|---|
| 02 February: | Fiesta of the Blessed Virgin of Candelaria |
| 19 March: | Joseph's Day (Dia de San José) |
| February / March: | Big carnival |
| March / April: | Easter (Semana Santa), Maundy Thursday and Good Friday (Holy Week), Easter Sunday, Easter Monday |
The Gran Canaria Carnival is one of the most spectacular in all of Spain. A huge, open, happy party that takes to the streets of the capital city, from Las Canteras Beach, where you can see one of the most charismatic parades in broad sunlight, to the beautiful neighbourhood of Vegueta.
Why is El Carnaval celebrated? ›Carnival (Carnaval in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries) originated as a pagan festival in ancient Egypt to say goodbye to winter and welcome spring. However, today's celebrations evolved from Alexander the Great, who adopted the festival after he conquered Egypt and overlaid it with Christian meanings.
Why is carnival in Spain celebrated? ›
Carnival celebrations, held before Lent, the period leading up to Easter. It has a religious origin and features traditions drawn from the pre-Christian festivals Bacanales and Saturnales of ancient Rome. The frenzy, the humor, the parodies and the jubilation invade the streets of the cities and towns of Spain.
How big is Tenerife South Airport? ›| Direction | Length | |
|---|---|---|
| m | ft | |
| 07/25 | 3,200 | 10,498 |
Tenerife is an island focused on tourism, so it's no wonder that as a tourist destination it has embraced quickly holidays such as Halloween.
What is happening in Tenerife September 2022? ›- Lagoon Party Tenerife. ...
- Language Exchange. ...
- Gran Fiesta de los Vinos. ...
- Puerto Street Market. ...
- Festivities of Santísimo Cristo in La Laguna. ...
- Pub Crawl -Puerto de la Cruz. ...
- Carnival of Puerto de la Cruz.
- Senderiza-t Hiking Tour – Stargazing Night. ...
- Romería de Garachico. ...
- Language Exchange. ...
- Tejina hearts 2022. ...
- Phe festival Puerto de la Cruz. ...
- Beer festival/ “Oktoberfest” ...
- Carnival of Puerto de la Cruz.
Like all sub-tropical areas, Tenerife has mosquitos. However, they are relatively low in number, particularly in the developed tourist areas. There are no known instances of mosquitos carrying malaria in Tenerife.
What's the best way to spend money in Tenerife? ›Credit and debit cards are accepted all over Tenerife. Only the most remote restaurants and bars won't have a card reader. Despite this, you'll often find that some shops and restaurants prefer cash for small purchases, and it's always useful to carry a few euros to help with budgeting and emergencies.
What is the cheapest time to go to Tenerife? ›The cheapest months include March, April, May (excluding the Easter period), October and November. The temperature in Tenerife rarely dips below 18°C in these months, so sightseeing, hiking and other activities are all still possible – and there will be fewer people on the beaches.
What is Santa Cruz like Tenerife? ›Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a beautiful port situated in Tenerife, the largest of the western islands in the Canary archipelago. Around its important port are wide avenues, squares and exotic landscaped areas, not forgetting some beautiful examples of modernist architecture.
Which part of Tenerife is hottest? ›Tenerife is a system of micro-climates, meaning that certain areas have fairly predictable weather year round. For the warmest weather possible, the obvious choices are the area around Playa de Las Americas/Los Cristianos in the south all the way up the south-western coast to Los Gigantes and Playa Santiago.
Which is the windy side of Tenerife? ›
The east coast of Tenerife tends to be windier than the south of the island. El Medano is popular for kitesurfing and there are a lot of kitesurfing schools around the area, so it's an ideal place to stay if you're interested in water sports.
What date is the carnival 2022? › What day is Notting Hill Carnival? ›| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | August 28 | Sunday |
| 2023 | August 27 | Sunday |
| 2024 | August 25 | Sunday |
| 2025 | August 24 | Sunday |
When is Notting Hill Carnival 2022? Notting Hill Carnival takes place on over the August bank holiday weekend. In 2022, this is 27-29 August, although most of the action takes place on Sunday 28 and Monday 29.
Does Tenerife celebrate bonfire night? ›Tenerife – The Island of Fireworks
Somewhere you probably didn't think of however is Tenerife. The largest island in the Canaries, Tenerife doesn't just celebrate the New Year with fireworks; they're a part of everyday life on the island for a large part of the year.
On 21 July 2022, a large forest fire broke out on the Island of Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain). The fire mainly affects the municipalities of Los Realejos, San Juan de la Rambla, La Guancha and Icod de los Vinos in the north of the island.
Is Tenerife Open in December? ›Can I go to the beach in December in Tenerife? December is still a good month to go to the beach in Tenerife. The best time to go is from June to December because the average temperatures go around 23ºC, even higher during the summertime.
Where is Tenerife? ›Tenerife, island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife provincia (province), Canary Islands comunidad autónoma (autonomous community), Spain, located in the Atlantic Ocean opposite the northwestern coast of Africa. It is the largest of the Canary Islands.
Is Tenerife Carnival 2022 going ahead? ›The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival events are slated to run from January 24 to March 1 in 2022. Carnival in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is scheduled to take place from 25 February to 20 March 2022. February 24 - March 6, 2022 Limassol Carnival.
What is happening in Tenerife September 2022? ›- Lagoon Party Tenerife. ...
- Language Exchange. ...
- Gran Fiesta de los Vinos. ...
- Puerto Street Market. ...
- Festivities of Santísimo Cristo in La Laguna. ...
- Pub Crawl -Puerto de la Cruz. ...
- Carnival of Puerto de la Cruz.
What festival is on in Tenerife? ›
| Date | Public holiday (spanish designation) |
|---|---|
| 02 February: | Fiesta of the Blessed Virgin of Candelaria |
| 19 March: | Joseph's Day (Dia de San José) |
| February / March: | Big carnival |
| March / April: | Easter (Semana Santa), Maundy Thursday and Good Friday (Holy Week), Easter Sunday, Easter Monday |
- Senderiza-t Hiking Tour – Stargazing Night. ...
- Romería de Garachico. ...
- Language Exchange. ...
- Tejina hearts 2022. ...
- Phe festival Puerto de la Cruz. ...
- Beer festival/ “Oktoberfest” ...
- Carnival of Puerto de la Cruz.
Tenerife is an island focused on tourism, so it's no wonder that as a tourist destination it has embraced quickly holidays such as Halloween.
Is the Notting Hill Carnival on this year 2022? ›When is Notting Hill Carnival 2022? Notting Hill Carnival takes place on over the August bank holiday weekend. In 2022, this is 27-29 August, although most of the action takes place on Sunday 28 and Monday 29.
Where are the fires in Tenerife? ›On 21 July 2022, a large forest fire broke out on the Island of Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain). The fire mainly affects the municipalities of Los Realejos, San Juan de la Rambla, La Guancha and Icod de los Vinos in the north of the island.
Does Tenerife celebrate bonfire night? ›Tenerife – The Island of Fireworks
Somewhere you probably didn't think of however is Tenerife. The largest island in the Canaries, Tenerife doesn't just celebrate the New Year with fireworks; they're a part of everyday life on the island for a large part of the year.
Can I go to the beach in December in Tenerife? December is still a good month to go to the beach in Tenerife. The best time to go is from June to December because the average temperatures go around 23ºC, even higher during the summertime.
What region is Playa de las Americas? ›Playa de las Américas is a purpose-built holiday resort in Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands of Spain. It is located in the southern and southern-west part of the Municipality of Arona, close to the adjoining Municipality of Adeje in the west of Tenerife.
What region is Los Cristianos? ›Los Cristianos is a town in Spain with a population of 21,235 (2017), situated on the south coast of the Canary Island of Tenerife. Located in the municipality of Arona between the cone of the mountain Chayofita and the greater mountain Guaza.