Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival 2026

Santa Cruz Carnival 2026: Latin Rhythms in the Heart of the Canaries

From 16 January to 22 February 2026, Santa Cruz de Tenerife will once again become the capital of the world Carnival. What's more, this festival, considered the second biggest on the planet after Rio de Janeiro, this year revolves around «Latin Rhythms», guaranteeing fiery nights and endless fun. This article is not just a programme guide, but a unique and practical proposal, full of tips and curiosities for you to enjoy the Carnival of Santa Cruz 2026 to the fullest.

The history of the Santa Cruz Carnival is deeply rooted, with the first written references dating back to the 18th century. In 1980, it was declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest and, since then, it has been one of the main attractions of the Canary Islands. In fact, the official Carnival website is carnavaldetenerife.com, where you can find all the latest information.

Official Programme 2026: Essential Dates and Events

Carnival officially begins on 16 January, but the most intense and colourful activities are concentrated in the last two weeks. It is therefore essential to know the key dates and not to miss the most emblematic events:

• Queen's Election Gala (Wednesday 11 February): This is a truly iconic moment where the candidates parade in spectacular costumes, true works of art often weighing more than 100 kg. This grand show kicks off the final stretch of Carnival and sets the tone for the celebrations.

• Announcement Parade (Friday 13 February): The official parade inaugurates the festive madness in the streets, where the Queen, her court and thousands of people in costume, troupes and bands walk along the main avenues. Without a doubt, Santa Cruz is filled with music and colour, and this is one of the most awaited moments for locals and visitors alike.

• Day Carnival (Sunday 15 and Saturday 21 February): It's not all night. These two daytime events bring Carnival to families and children, with music, dancing and fun in emblematic squares such as Plaza del Príncipe and Plaza de España. In addition, during the day, the city is transformed into a safe and lively space for all ages.

• Coso Apotheosis (Tuesday 17 February): The great apotheosis is the climax and the most multitudinous parade. Dozens of floats, murgas, comparsas and the Queen parade along the Avenida de Anaga in front of hundreds of thousands of spectators. Finally, it is an unmissable spectacle that embodies the spirit of Carnival.

• Burial of the Sardine (Wednesday 18 February): The Carnival ends with this peculiar and humorous procession. A huge sardine made of papier-mâché is escorted through the town, which is then burnt on the seashore. It is traditional to dress as widows and thus symbolises the end of the festivities and the beginning of Lent.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Carnival

• Transport: During Carnival, the centre is closed to traffic. For this reason, it is best to use the guagua (bus) or the tram. TITSA has reinforced its services and timetables, making it easier to get to and from home throughout the night and in the early hours of the morning. This way, you will be able to move around easily and safely.

• Accommodation:  Book months in advance. The city centre is ideal for experiencing the party from the inside, but high demand means that hotels fill up fast.

• Costumes: Dressing up in costume is almost obligatory for locals and visitors alike. The more original, the better. Take advantage of the “Latin Rhythms” theme to show off and blend in with the crowd, as flashy costumes are an essential part of the event.

• Booking of tickets: Get your tickets for major galas and competitions through the official website; they tend to sell out quickly. On the other hand, parades and street parties are free.

• Folding chair: To enjoy parades such as the Coso Apoteosis or the Cabalgata for several hours, a folding chair will be useful. In fact, the locals also carry a folding chair so that they can rest between events.

• Security and accessibility: Take care of your personal belongings. If you need help, look for the “Orange Point” points, created for general assistance and accessibility for people with disabilities. This way, everyone can enjoy the party without worries.

Curiosities and Traditions

• The Queen's weight: The costumes of the Carnival Queens weigh up to 170 kg and are transported on wheeled structures, which impresses everyone in attendance.

• Guinness World Record: In 1987, Celia Cruz's concert in Plaza de España brought together more than 250,000 people, a record that has never been broken and shows the magnitude of the event.

• Carnival House: Discover the history and legendary costumes at the Casa del Carnaval museum, a must-see place to understand the soul of the festival and its evolution.

• Great themes of the past: Each year the Carnival adopts a different theme. Some of the most memorable have been «Rome», «The Jungle» (with a giant King Kong on stage), «Sea World», «Science Fiction», «Hollywood Musicals» and «The 80s». All these themes reinvent the city and give rise to ever more creative costumes and parades.

The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife promises a magical experience in 2026. Music, dance and joy will make you part of this unique spectacle. Dress up in your best costume, immerse yourself in Latin rhythms and join the most colourful and vibrant party in the world.