It’s fun, frenetic and fantastic. It’s Santa Cruz De Tenerife Carnival. This year’s event takes place between the 19th of February and the 1st of March with the theme ‘The Coquette ’50s.’ Comprising of Carnival Queen events, parades including Children’s processions, antique car competitions, street parties, dancing, live music and as much fun as anyone can have, this is the place to be. In 2019 it was estimated that 400,000 revellers enjoyed everything that carnival has to offer.
With so much to do the event can be quite overwhelming but some of the key festivities are:
On the 21st the Opening Parade at 20:00 blasts into action on Avenida Bélgica, closely followed by the annual best-decorated float or vehicle competition. Those wanting something a little livelier there is a massive street party with music and dancing along Plaza del Principe, Plaza La Candelaria and Avenida Francisco La Roche.
One of the most anticipated events is the Carnival de Día (Daytime Carnival) on Sunday the 23rd. The festivities kick off at 13:00 continuing to 20:00 with the main events taking place along Plaza del Principe, Plaza La Candelaria and Avenida Francisco La Roche. This unforgettable afternoon and evening is followed by live music entertainment from bands as well as orchestral performances.
Tuesday the 25th the Tenerife Carnival Parade (Coso de Apotheosisl) starts at 16:00 with the main activities centred along Avenida Maritima and Avenida Francisco La Roche.
Wednesday the 26th is the all-important ‘Sardine Burial’ symbolising the end of carnival and the festivities. The parade which is a parody of a funeral procession ends with the symbolic burning of a figure, usually a colossal sardine representing hope, rebirth and renewal.
