Maspalomas Carnival is one of the most colourful celebrations in Gran Canaria, attracting visitors from all over the world to experience this unique blend of tradition, culture and unlimited fun.
This festival is an explosion of colour, music and joy; a festivity that every year transforms Gran Canaria into a true celebration. As we will see, this event traces its roots back to the 1960s. Little by little it has grown into a mosaic of parades, costume contests, galas such as the Drag Queen Gala and much more.
History of the Maspalomas International Carnival
The Carnival of Maspalomas has always been an important event in the cultural calendar of Gran Canaria, although it has evolved and changed over time.
This tradition began in the 1960s as a mere gathering of residents and visitors, and gradually became one of the most colourful and eagerly awaited festivals in the Canary Islands. During the 1970s and 1980s it grew in popularity and began to include a variety of events such as parades, fancy dress contests and musical performances.
In the 1990s, the Maspalomas Carnival underwent a major transformation and began to gain international fame. It was during these years that activities began to be incorporated that are now indispensable and have come to symbolise the very essence of the celebration. The Drag Queen Gala of Maspalomas, introduced in 1998, quickly became one of the highlights of the carnival. This event brought a dimension of innovation and showmanship, reflecting the inclusive and diverse spirit of Carnival.
In the 21st century, it continued to grow in size and spectacle. In fact, the 2005 edition marked a before and after in the history of the event, setting records for attendance and participation. Year after year, the Maspalomas Carnival has continued to innovate and expand its range of activities. Today it is an important event in the cultural calendar of Gran Canaria, eagerly awaited by residents and tourists alike.
Maspalomas Carnival itinerary
This festival offers a wide variety of shows. Both locals and tourists who want to enjoy the carnival can take part in murgas, comparsas and dances throughout the city. What are the most outstanding events? Keep reading, we’ll give you a list of what not to miss in Maspalomas during these days.
Queen, Child Queen and Grand Dame Galas
The Queen, Child Queen and Grand Dame Election Galas are key events in the Carnival, where the Festival’s ambassadors are chosen. At these celebrations, the representatives dazzle with extraordinary and elaborate costumes that are true works of art in motion. The local people, with their characteristic creativity and organisational skills, are deeply involved in the preparation of these galas, devoting time and passion to designing floats that are a spectacle in themselves.
Maspalomas Carnival Parade
The Maspalomas Carnival Parade is a display of ingenuity, good humour and creativity by the people of the southern part of the island, who create original and colourful costumes. The streets are filled with elaborate floats and giant platforms that showcase the majesty and ingenuity of the locals. It is a true celebration of diversity and creativity.
The rescue of the sardine
This is one of the most original moments of the festival. At the centre of this symbolic act is a giant sardine, considered an icon of Carnival, “dying in the sea”. Characters dressed as doctors and nurses lead a humorous procession along the beach, trying to “save” the sardine in a show that mixes street theatre with carnival tradition. The combination of humour, creativity and social criticism makes this a not-to-be-missed event, attracting locals and visitors alike in a collective celebration of life, death and the symbolic rebirth that represents the end of Carnival.
A carnival in the sun
In 2024, the end of the festivities is celebrated in the iconic Playa del Inglés with the Carnaval al Sol, organised by the City Council of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. The event will offer a unique fusion of electronic music and party atmosphere under the sun.
The burial of the sardine
This is one of the most emblematic and eagerly awaited rituals of the Maspalomas Carnival, symbolically marking the end of the festivities. It takes place on the last Sunday of the carnival and is an act full of humour and satire. During the ceremony, a famous character reads a fictitious testament in which the “last will and testament” of the Sardine is expressed.
The reading is characterised by its humorous and ironic tone, commenting on current events in the city and other topics of general interest, making this event an opportunity for reflection through laughter.
How can I prepare for the Maspalomas Carnival?
If you want to attend the Maspalomas Carnival and live the experience first hand, there are two essential things to remember:
Buy your tickets well in advance
As this is a festival that attracts thousands of tourists, it is important to book or buy your tickets well in advance.
Book your accommodation
Accommodation is one of the most important parts of planning a trip to the Canary Islands, especially when it comes to the Maspalomas Carnival.
The Lopesan Hotel Group offers you the unique opportunity to enjoy this wonderful time of the year in one of its hotels in Gran Canaria. Strategically located close to the carnival venues, our hotels offer you the best facilities and services to enjoy this unique event. If you’re sure you want to go to the Maspalomas Carnival, don’t think twice! Come and enjoy this wonderful celebration in the Canary Islands.
