Did you know that one of the most eagerly awaited events at Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s Carnival is a drag gala? This is no ordinary performance, but a dazzling showcase of creativity, humour, music and jaw-dropping costumes that draws thousands to Parque Santa Catalina every year. If you’ve ever watched a clip or heard it mentioned, you’ll know it’s unmissable.
In 2025 the Drag Queen Gala shone brighter than ever. The atmosphere, the crowd’s energy and the staging all showed why this event has become one of the great highlights of Carnival. And yet there’s one year that still echoes in the collective memory: 2022, a turning point that opened a new chapter in the gala’s story.
Want to know what made that edition so special—and why so many travellers plan their trip to the island to coincide with it? Here’s the full picture.
More than a show: the spirit of Carnival, pure and simple
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s Drag Queen Gala is more than a night of entertainment; it’s a statement. It’s the moment the city throws its arms open to talent, imagination and unapologetic freedom. What began as a bold addition to the programme is now a symbol of identity and one of the most cherished dates for locals and visitors alike.
Creativity knows no bounds here. On stage, drag performers blend humour, sharp wit, rhythm and acrobatics in routines that surprise year after year. What truly sets the gala apart is what it represents for the island: a celebration of diversity, the courage to be yourself and a culture that welcomes without judgement.
Parque Santa Catalina—the beating heart of Carnival—transforms completely on gala night. Thousands get behind every act with banners, cheers and a level of enthusiasm you don’t see every day. It doesn’t matter where you’ve come from: the mood sweeps you up. There’s a real bond between stage and audience, a shared energy that makes everyone feel part of the show.
And the setting adds its own magic. Experiencing it in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria means warm Atlantic breezes, lively terraces, illuminated streets and the kind of gentle weather that lets you celebrate outdoors even in March. It all comes together to make Gran Canaria’s Drag Queen Gala more than a Carnival date—it’s an experience that stays with you.
Drag Gran Canaria 2025: talent, party and pure emotion
The 2025 edition proved once again why this gala is a headline act of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s Carnival. Parque Santa Catalina hosted the show on Friday, 7 March, with an electric, feel-good atmosphere. Fifteen finalists gave it everything on stage in a night packed with humour, technical skill and high-octane spectacle.
The star of the show was Drag Ármek, who took the crown after a performance that left the crowd open-mouthed. The staging, costume, choreography and the message behind it struck an instant chord with everyone there—and with thousands more watching at home on Radio Televisión Canaria and La 2 (TVE).But beyond the winner, what truly stood out was the collective force of the event. Each act showcased the islands’ talent and the creative freedom that defines this gala. The audience responded with applause, laughter, ovations and total involvement. Families, groups of friends, curious travellers and Carnival devotees shared a night where everyone had a place.
The 2022 Drag Queen Gran Canaria edition
If any year marked a watershed moment, it was the 2022 Gran Canaria Drag Queen Gala. That edition reached unprecedented international visibility and became a phenomenon far beyond Carnival itself.
One of the most memorable moments was the victory of Drag Vulcano. A powerhouse, pitch-perfect routine finally clinched the title after a decade of attempts—an emblem of effort, perseverance and passion for the art of drag. The win earned a unanimous ovation, and Drag Vulcano became a reference point both within and beyond the archipelago.
That year also featured a special appearance by Chanel, riding the wave of her Eurovision success. Her presence drew national and international media attention and amplified the gala’s impact. For days, the event dominated headlines and sparked thousands of social media interactions, with images and videos travelling the globe.
What’s more, 2022 coincided with the gala’s 25th anniversary, reinforcing the event’s iconic status. The celebration looked back on how this date has become a standard-bearer for freedom, identity and artistic expression in Gran Canaria.
It didn’t only leave an indelible mark on those who were there. It also raised interest in the event and put Las Palmas de Gran Canaria firmly on the map for travellers seeking authentic experiences deeply connected to local culture.
An unmissable date
The Drag Queen Gala has become a cornerstone of Carnival, and a compelling reason to plan a getaway to the island. During those days, Las Palmas hums with a special energy: a festive, open-minded mood that invites you to experience something out of the ordinary.
Parque Santa Catalina, the epicentre of the gala, becomes the focal point, with a crowd revelling in sheer talent and creativity. The mix of celebration, urban setting and the Canary Islands’ pleasant climate makes the experience hard to forget.
Beyond the gala, the city serves up culture, nightlife and great food for anyone wanting to stretch out the experience. Strolling through Vegueta, soaking up the terrace buzz or uncovering lesser-known cultural spots gives context to the gala and shows a different side to the city. The perfect excuse to enjoy Las Palmas—no filters, no masks.
What you need to know if you want to go
Thinking of experiencing the Drag Queen Gala live? A few practical pointers will help you make the most of it. First, the gala usually takes place in March as part of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s official Carnival programme. The exact date changes each year, so keep an eye on the City Council’s announcements a few months in advance.
Tickets are free, but you need to reserve them via the official Carnival website, and they often disappear in minutes. To secure your spot, log in ahead of time and watch for the exact day and time when distribution opens.
On logistics, Parque Santa Catalina is very well connected. You can get there easily by guagua (the local word for city bus), taxi or even on foot. If you want a great view of the stage, arrive early: the gates usually open several hours before showtime and people start taking their places from early afternoon.
Get ready for an unforgettable night at the heart of the Canary Islands’ Carnival.
Where to stay to make the most of Carnival
If you’re planning to attend the Drag Queen Gala and soak up the Carnival atmosphere in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, choosing the right place to stay—and booking ahead—makes all the difference. At Lopesan Hotel Group we specialise in experiences that blend comfort, location and thoughtful services, so you can enjoy every moment. Whether you want a calm base after the party or to be close to the action, there’s something for you.
You’ll find:
- Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa: a five-star resort with colonial-inspired architecture, expansive gardens and an impressive infinity pool, right by the Maspalomas Lighthouse.
- Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort & Thalasso: inspired by a traditional Canarian village, with a welcoming feel and wellness services.
- Lopesan Baobab Resort: an African-themed hotel known for its striking design and family-friendly vibe.
- Hotel Faro, a Lopesan Collection Hotel: adults-only, ideal if you’re after tranquillity and sea views.
- Corallium Beach by Lopesan Hotels: in San Agustín, perfect for unwinding close to the beach in an adults-only setting.
- Abora by Lopesan Hotels: with several locations in Playa del Inglés, offering options for families and travellers seeking fun and entertainment.
All of these hotels are within easy reach of Parque Santa Catalina—the epicentre of the Drag Queen Gala—and offer straightforward access to Carnival’s main attractions. We’re ready when you are.
