The Ultimate Guide to the Tenerife Carnival: A Celebration of Music, Dance, and Color
As one of the most famous carnivals in the world, the Tenerife Carnival is a must-visit event for anyone looking to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Canary Islands. In this article, we’ll take you through the history, dates, and program of the carnival, as well as some of its unique customs and activities.
History of the Tenerife Carnival
The Tenerife Carnival has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century, when it was first organized by the local authorities. Over time, the carnival has evolved into a series of celebrations that take place in various cities on the island, but without doubt, the main note for the festivities is Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The carnival is a celebration of music, dance, and color, with elaborate parades, performances by murgas (bands in masks), concerts, dances, and much more. The contests involving adults and children are particularly famous and appreciated, such as the one for the best costume (Concurso Disfraces) but especially those for the election of the “Queen of Carnival”, the “Little Queen” (Reina Infantil) and the “Queen of Seniors” (Eleccion de la Reina y Festival of Senior Groups).
When Does the Festival Start and How Long Does it Last?
The Tenerife Carnival typically takes place in February, with the festivities beginning on Friday, January 12th and ending on Sunday, February 18th. The chosen theme for the carnival is usually announced in advance, and it can vary from one year to another.
Curiosities and Traditions
One of the most unique aspects of the Tenerife Carnival is the parade of popular wagons, which takes place during the festivities. The inhabitants work for several months to create complex structures to showcase and entertain. During the parade, folk music groups perform, and murgas (traditional theatrical performances in masks) take place.
The two main parades are “Cabalgata Anunciadora” (the procession of the Carnival Queen) and “Coso” (the Ash Wednesday parade). Murgas are bands that mix music and theater, usually composed of about 40 elements that sing satirical songs with the help of whistles and percussion instruments.
Entierro de la Sardina: A Ritual of Fire and Music
One of the most famous traditions during the Tenerife Carnival is the Entierro de la Sardina (The Burial of the Sardine). It takes place on the Wednesday of Ashes, and it’s a parade that ends with the burning of large carton sardines, accompanied by people dressed in mourning.
Las Burras: The Stunned Witches
Another unique tradition is Las Burras, a particular version of the burial of the sardine organized in the Güímar area. Here during the procession, you can see the “stunned” witches (burras) who frighten the local villagers before being burned.
Matar la Culebra: A Ritual of Afro-Cuban Origin
Matar la culebra (Killing the Snake) is a ritual of Afro-Cuban origin during which some men dressed as African slaves kill a snake, symbolizing evil. This ritual is an important part of the Tenerife Carnival’s cultural heritage.
Participate in the Carnival of Tenerife: Flight + Hotel Packages
Are you ready to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Canary Islands? Book your flight and hotel package now! Low-cost flights from €127.00, where to stay 8 nights in Santa Cruz de Tenerife for couples from €590.00, and a recommended card, ticket, and tour visit a guided half-day tour of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Program of the Carnival
Below is the program:
- January 12th: Inauguration of the Carnival
- January 18-20: Murgas Infantiles (1st, 2nd and 3rd phases)
- January 21: Festival Coreográfico
- January 23-25: Murgas Adultas (1st, 2nd and 3rd phases)
- January 26: Final of Murgas
- January 27: Concurso de Agrupaciones Musicales
- January 31: Gala of Election of the Infant Queen
- February 1: Gala of Election of the Queen of Seniors
- February 2: Song of Laughter
- February 3: Contest of Comparsas
- February 4: Concert by Los Fregolinos
- February 7: Gala of Election of the Carnival Queen
- February 9: Anunciadora Cabalgata
- February 10: Contest of Rhythm and Harmony
- February 13: Coso (parade on Ash Wednesday)
- February 14: Entierro de la Sardina
- February 16: Infantile Coso and Festival of Awarded Groups
- February 17: Daytime Carnival
- February 18: Concert Nifu-Nifa-Los Fregolinos, Fin of Fiesta and pyrotechnic display
- Featuring 120 new destinations, this best-selling inspirational travel guide reveals 500 celebrated...
- Completely revised and updated for its 10th anniversary
- Compiled from the favorite trips of National Geographic's legendary travel writers, this fully...
Conclusion
The Tenerife Carnival is a unique and unforgettable experience that combines music, dance, and color. With its rich history, cultural traditions, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder why this carnival is one of the most famous in the world.
Whether you’re interested in participating in the festivities, attending performances by murgas and concerts, or simply soaking up the local culture, the Tenerife Carnival has something for everyone. So come and experience it for yourself!
FAQs
- Q: When does the carnival start?
A: The carnival typically takes place in February, with the festivities beginning on Friday, January 12th and ending on Sunday, February 18th. - Q: What is the theme of the carnival?
A: The chosen theme for the carnival can vary from one year to another, but it’s usually announced in advance. - Q: Can I participate in the carnival?
A: Yes! You can book your flight and hotel package now and experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Canary Islands. - Q: What is Matar la culebra?
A: Matar la culebra (Killing the Snake) is a ritual of Afro-Cuban origin during which some men dressed as African slaves kill a snake, symbolizing evil. - Q: What is Las Burras?
A: Las Burras is a particular version of the burial of the sardine organized in the Güímar area, featuring “stunned” witches who frighten the local villagers before being burned. - Q: How do I book my flight and hotel package?
A: You can book your flight and hotel package now by visiting our website or contacting us directly. - Q: What is the program of the carnival?
A: Below is the program: - January 12th: Inauguration of the Carnival
- January 18-20: Murgas Infantiles (1st, 2nd and 3rd phases)
- January 21: Festival Coreográfico
- January 23-25: Murgas Adultas (1st, 2nd and 3rd phases)
- January 26: Final of Murgas
- January 27: Concurso de Agrupaciones Musicales
- January 31: Gala of Election of the Infant Queen
- February 1: Gala of Election of the Queen of Seniors
- February 2: Song of Laughter
- February 3: Contest of Comparsas
- February 4: Concert by Los Fregolinos
- February 7: Gala of Election of the Carnival Queen
- February 9: Anunciadora Cabalgata
- February 10: Contest of Rhythm and Harmony
- February 13: Coso (parade on Ash Wednesday)
- February 14: Entierro de la Sardina
- February 16: Infantile Coso and Festival of Awarded Groups
- February 17: Daytime Carnival
- February 18: Concert Nifu-Nifa-Los Fregolinos, Fin of Fiesta and pyrotechnic display
- Q: How much does it cost to participate in the carnival?
A: Prices vary depending on the package you choose, but you can expect to pay around €127 for a flight from €590 for an 8-night stay in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. - Q: What is included in the package?
A: The package includes flights, accommodation, and a recommended card, ticket, and tour visit a guided half-day tour of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. - Q: How do I contact you for more information?
A: You can contact us directly by visiting our website or sending an email to info@tenerifecarnival.com.
