Welcome to Las Palmas Carnival 2026! 🎉
In 2026, the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival celebrates its spectacular 50th Anniversary under the theme "Las Vegas". Join us for the two most highly anticipated events of the carnival season: the Gran Cabalgata (Grand Parade) and the traditional Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine). Here is everything you need to know as a tourist to make the most of this unforgettable weekend!
Gran Cabalgata (The Grand Parade)
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
- Start Time: 17:00 (5:00 PM)
- Expected Crowd: Over 100,000 people and 100+ floats!
- After-party: Until 05:00 AM in leisure zones
The Route
The parade stretches over 7 kilometers across the city, starting from the north and making its way south to the historic center:
- Starts at: Plaza Manuel Becerra
- Calle Juan Rejón
- Calle Albareda
- Parque Santa Catalina (Carnival Epicenter)
- Calle Presidente Alvear
- Calle León y Castillo
- Ends at: Parque San Telmo
Tourist Tip: Arrive early (around 15:30) to secure a good viewing spot near Parque Santa Catalina or Calle León y Castillo. Don't forget to dress up! Wearing a costume is highly encouraged for everyone.
Entierro de la Sardina (Burning of the Sardine)
Event Details
- Date: Sunday, March 1, 2026
- Start Time: 19:00 (7:00 PM)
- Theme: Mourning the end of Carnival
The Route
The mock funeral procession goes from the city to the beach:
- 🏁 Starts: Club Natación Metropole
- 🌊 Ends: Playa de Las Canteras
- 🔥 The Finale: "Quemar la sardina" - A giant sardine structure is famously brought into the ocean and burned at Las Canteras beach, followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
Tourist Tip: The dress code for this event is "widow attire" - dress in black as if you are going to a funeral. Join the weeping "widows" as they bid a dramatic and hilarious farewell to the Carnival season. Please note traffic closures around Calle Juan Manuel Durán from 18:00 to 22:00.