In February, Tenerife's heart beats to the rhythm of carnival. The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival dresses the city in colors, music, and passion, where Latin melodies and unrestrained celebration take center stage. If you want to get a glimpse of the island's most vibrant side, now is the best time!
One of the most iconic events in the Canary Islands takes on a new look every year, but its essence remains the same: music, vibrant colors, creativity, and unbridled joy fill the streets. The 2026 carnival is based on the theme of Latin Rhythms, celebrating the richness of Caribbean culture, its visual world and the power of dance.
By mid-February, the carnival is in full swing, and the following days are also full of spectacular, unforgettable events.
The 2026 theme brings the world of salsa, son, mambo, bachata and merengue to the capital. The costumes, choreography and visuals all pay tribute to Latin music culture, transforming the streets of Santa Cruz into an open-air dance floor.
The carnival atmosphere will continue in the coming days:
One of the most spectacular parades of the carnival. Monumental sets, dance groups, comparsas, and fantastic costumes parade through the city in what is the visual highlight of the carnival.
The "Burial of the Sardine" is one of the most unique and symbolic events of the carnival. This ironic, theatrical ritual is both a farewell and a collective emotional catharsis, with laughter, costumed "widows" and a spectacular finale.
The daytime carnival is especially popular with families and those who want to experience the excitement of the festival in the sunshine and a more relaxed atmosphere. Music, street concerts, and dancing on every corner.
The soul of the carnival is the local community. The murgas – musical groups interwoven with humor and social criticism – attract huge audiences year after year. The comparsas and other performing groups bring rhythm, energy and cultural richness to the celebration.
Street food stalls, improvised stages and spontaneous dancing turn downtown Santa Cruz into a huge, festive venue where the carnival is a real shared experience.
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is considered one of the most famous carnivals in the world. Due to its history, creative visuals and cultural power, many compare it to the world's largest carnivals.
If you are staying in the south of Tenerife, it is worth exploring the local events, such as the Los Cristianos Carnival or the Los Gigantes Carnival. These offer a more family-friendly, easily accessible alternative, with the same cheerful, colorful atmosphere.
