Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2026 – Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Overview
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a world-class celebration that ranks as the most significant festival in Spain and one of the largest in the world. For weeks, the city of Santa Cruz is transformed into a massive stage where the boundaries between performers and spectators disappear in a sea of rhythm and color. The event is famous for its incredible atmosphere of safety and inclusivity, allowing people of all ages to dance through the streets until the sun rises over the Atlantic Ocean.
The festival is deeply rooted in local identity, featuring a complex schedule of competitions that lead up to the massive street parties known as the Carnival in the Street. Visitors can witness the incredible artistry of the Carnival Queen candidates, whose costumes are marvels of engineering and design, often reaching over five meters in height. From the satirical lyrics of the murgas to the high-energy choreography of the comparsas, the carnival offers a rich cultural tapestry that defines the spirit of the Canary Islands.
Event Highlights
- The Grand Queen Gala: A massive televised event where candidates showcase breathtaking costumes in a competition for the carnival throne.
- The Opening Parade: A vibrant procession through the city streets that signals the beginning of the outdoor festivities for everyone.
- The Rhythm and Harmony Contest: A specialized parade dedicated to the drum corps and dancers who bring the pulse of the islands to life.
- Daytime Carnival: Large-scale street parties held during the day that are perfect for families and those who prefer dancing under the sun.
Why Attend
Attending this carnival is an essential experience for anyone who loves high-energy cultural festivals and massive public celebrations. It offers a unique opportunity to see world-class costume design and musical performances in a setting that feels like a giant, friendly neighborhood party. The subtropical climate of Tenerife in February provides the perfect weather for outdoor festivities, making it a popular escape for travelers looking for warmth and joy during the winter months.
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This event is perfect for photographers, music lovers, and anyone who wants to experience one of the most authentic expressions of Spanish island culture. The inclusive nature of the carnival means that anyone can participate simply by putting on a costume and joining the crowds in the plazas. It is a place where creativity has no limits and where the entire city unites to celebrate life through music, dance, and humor.
Date & Duration
- Official Dates: The main events and street celebrations are scheduled to take place from February 11 to February 22, 2026.
- Festival Length: The core celebration spans twelve consecutive days of parades, concerts, and street parties across the capital city.
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain.
- Main Venue: The streets of the city center, specifically around Plaza de España and the Fair Institution building.
- Google Maps Address: Plaza de España, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
Ticket Information
- Ticket Sales: Tickets for the major galas and indoor competitions are sold online through the official carnival platform and local box offices.
- Admission Type: Participation in the street carnival and viewing the main parades from the sidewalk is completely free for all visitors.
- Ticket Pricing: Paid events like the Queen Gala typically cost between $11 USD and $65 USD depending on the seating section.
- Free Entry: There is no charge to enter the city center during the festival or to join the nightly street parties in the public squares.
- VIP Options: Special grandstand seating is available for purchase along the parade routes for approximately $15 USD per person.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@carnavaltenerife.es
- Phone: +34 922 60 96 00
- Website: https://carnavaldetenerife.com/en/
- Social Media:
- https://www.instagram.com/carnavaldetenerife/
- https://www.facebook.com/carnavaldetenerife/
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Tenerife North Airport is located 13 km away with taxi fares around $22 USD while Tenerife South is 60 km away.
- Public Transport: The TITSA bus service offers special 24-hour lines during the festival for around $3 USD to $10 USD per trip.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Official taxis are plentiful at marked ranks but expect wait times during peak festival hours and a cost of $25 USD locally.
- Parking: Using public transport is highly recommended as most city center streets are closed and parking garages charge about $20 USD daily.
- Other Access: The city tram system is the most efficient way to travel from nearby La Laguna for a flat fare of $1.50 USD.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey offers 5-star colonial luxury about 1 km from the center for $220-450 USD per night.
- Mid-Range Options: Hotel Taburiente provides modern 4-star rooms near the city park for approximately $150-280 USD per night.
- Budget Stays: Hotel Adonis Plaza offers central 3-star accommodation near the main squares for around $90-160 USD per night.
Reviews
- The sheer scale of the costumes at the Queen Gala is something you have to see with your own eyes to believe.
- Dancing in the streets of Santa Cruz with thousands of people in costume was the most fun I have ever had.
- It is amazing how safe and friendly the atmosphere is despite there being so many people out in the streets at night.
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FAQ's
Is it mandatory to wear a costume during the street carnival events?
While it is not legally required to wear a costume, almost everyone in the streets will be dressed up in some way. Wearing a costume helps you feel like part of the celebration and is highly encouraged for the best experience. If you do not have a full outfit, even a simple wig or a mask will make you feel at home.
How do I get tickets for the Queen Election Gala?
Tickets for the Queen Gala go on sale a few weeks before the event and usually sell out within minutes of being released. You must monitor the official website closely and be ready to purchase them as soon as the sales window opens. If you miss the online sale, there are sometimes a few tickets available at the venue box office on the day.
What is the weather like in Tenerife during the February carnival?
The weather in Santa Cruz during February is typically very pleasant with daytime temperatures averaging around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the nights can feel a bit cooler due to the ocean breeze, so it is a good idea to incorporate layers into your costume. Occasional light rain is possible, but it rarely stops the festivities from continuing as planned.
Are there specific areas that are better for families with young children?
Families should focus on the daytime carnival events which offer a much more relaxed environment and plenty of space for children to play. The morning parades and the children's competitions are designed specifically for younger audiences and take place in the safer, sunlit hours. These events feature the same colorful costumes but without the loud music and dense crowds of the night.
What is the best way to travel between the north and south of the island during the event?
The green TITSA buses are the most reliable way to travel between the tourist centers in the south and the festival in the north. During the carnival, the bus company adds extra frequent services to ensure that people can get back to their hotels safely at any hour. Buying a pre-paid transport card at the station will save you money and make boarding much faster.
