Everything you need to know about the Tenerife Carnival to enjoy a unique experience

The Tenerife Carnival is one of the most iconic festivities in the Canary Islands and probably in Spain. This tradition, with a rich history behind it, continues to grow thanks to the thousands of visitors who join every year. And it's no surprise. Can you imagine a paradise where the days overflow with joy and the nights vibrate to the rhythm of Canarian drums, with music that knows no borders?

The carnival spirit will captivate you from the moment you set foot on the island. The atmosphere is filled with contagious energy, and the streets transform into a vibrant spectacle where artists express their creativity through dazzling costumes, dreamlike floats, and rhythm-filled dances. Want to know more? Join us in this post and fall in love with the Tenerife Carnival.

History of the Tenerife Carnival

The history of the Tenerife Carnival dates back to the 16th century, as a result of the fusion between the cultures of Spanish and Portuguese expeditions en route to America and the local population of the Canary Islands. Over the next 400 years, the Carnival progressively gained popularity among the upper classes, who organized luxurious balls, and the general population, who participated in lively street celebrations.

In 1980, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife was declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest, expanding to become a globally recognized and vibrant event. Seven years later, the singer Celia Cruz broke a Guinness World Record by performing at an open-air concert attended by more than 200,000 people.

Today, the Tenerife Carnival has worldwide recognition and attracts thousands of tourists every year. Its traditions, performances, and festive atmosphere have cemented its status as one of the most important carnivals in the world, rivaling other renowned carnivals such as those in Rio de Janeiro or Venice.

Main Events of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival

The Tenerife Carnival features a series of important events that stand out for their originality and the number of people who celebrate them. Each offers a unique experience, full of excitement and color. You can't leave the island without experiencing them all.

1. The Opening Parade: The Beginning of the Carnival

The Opening Parade marks the official start of the Carnival. It is a nighttime parade through Santa Cruz de Tenerife, featuring all the groups participating in that year's Carnival edition. It is common to see spontaneous attendees joining the parade and dancing non-stop. So now you know—fun is guaranteed!


The Opening Parade of the 2024 Tenerife Carnival.

2. Queen's Election Gala: The Glamour of the Carnival

This event is one of the most anticipated of the Carnival. The candidates parade in their 'fantasies', which are impressive and colorful costumes that weigh an average of 170 kilograms. You'll see them designed with countless materials you would never imagine, such as feathers or metals. And if that wasn't enough, the maximum weight allowed for these costumes is 700 kilograms.

Each year, a Queen is crowned in three different categories: child, adult, and senior. This Queen's Election Gala is considered the kickoff to the street festivities, and it is broadcast and followed worldwide.


2024 Queen's Election Gala announcement, broadcast by Radio Televisión Canaria.

3. Coso Apoteosis: The Grand Finale of the Carnival

This parade, considered the largest and most spectacular, takes place along the city's main avenues. Held on Carnival Tuesday, the Coso Apoteosis marks the grand finale of the festivities, where you can enjoy all kinds of comparsas, murgas, rondallas, and more, while watching the parade of The Carnival Queens along with their court of honor, costumed groups, floats, and more.


2024 Coso Apoteosis parade of the Tenerife Carnival.

4. The Burial of the Sardine: The Closing of the Carnival

The Burial of the Sardine symbolizes the end of the Carnival. This parade features quirky characters who exaggerate their grief in a grotesque yet humorous way, following a procession with a giant cardboard sardine, which is eventually burned at the end of the route. Many people attend with their faces painted with fake tears and dressed in black clothing. Despite its seemingly somber nature, it is lived with a combination of laughter and overacted sorrow, creating a unique yet magical atmosphere.


Radio Televisión Canaria's report on the Burial of the Sardine. Year 2023.

Tips to Enjoy the Carnival

As you may have noticed, this festivity attracts a large number of tourists. That is why at Vincci Hotels, we want to give you a few tips to make the most of your carnival experience: plan your trip and stay at our Hotel Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur 5*.

Plan Your Trip

This is not the place or time for improvisation. Planning your routes and schedules is essential to save hours that you could spend enjoying the festivities like never before.

Key Dates and Schedules

The Carnival events last for several weeks. We recommend checking the official program to find out the dates of the most important activities. These events usually attract large crowds, so it's advisable to arrive early and carefully choose the days you want to participate.

Transport and Access

During the Carnival, traffic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife can be chaotic, and some streets will be closed. Using public transport is a great option, allowing easy access to various activities. Walking is also worth considering if distances allow, as it offers a more immersive way to experience the festive atmosphere.

Luxury Accommodation: Hotel Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur 5*

There is no better way to top off such special festivities than by staying at a luxury hotel like Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur 5*. And it’s necessary too, because the daily carnival schedule is hectic, and you'll truly appreciate our exceptional service. Located in an idyllic setting, our Nammu Spa Area, gourmet cuisine, swimming pools, common areas, and gym, among many other services, will make this Carnival a unique experience. We recommend booking your stay in advance.


Villa Deluxe Garden Room at Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur 5*

The distance between Hotel Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur 5*, located in Costa Adeje, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where the main festivities take place, is approximately 80 km by road. However, there are plenty of transport options to get around the island. Options range from car rentals (our hotel offers private parking), public transport such as buses (a journey of about an hour with a cost of 6 to 8 euros), or taxis (approximately 45 minutes with an estimated cost of 50 - 60 euros). In any case, our hotel team will be at your disposal to assist you with transportation or any other needs you may have during your trip to this paradise.

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