Discover the Magic of the Tenerife Carnival | Bahia Principe
Tenerife is getting ready for the biggest celebrations on the island. Previously celebrated in winter, the pandemic has shifted the Carnival in Santa Cruz de Tenerife to the summer in 2022. In principle, June has been chosen to celebrate the main events organised for ‘carnestolendas’ (or Shrovetide) in the capital of Tenerife. The island will be flooded with colour and music, inviting everyone to celebrate and enjoy the massive show that is Carnival.
Do you know where this hugely popular event comes from?
Tenerife Carnival: A Spectacle That Transforms the Island
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the island’s largest and most vibrant celebration, recognized worldwide for its spectacular nature, color, and joy. Traditionally held in winter, this unique event is one of the most renowned carnivals in the world. In 2022, due to the pandemic, the celebration was postponed to summer in June, but it retained the essence that makes it an unforgettable event.
Each year, both locals and tourists prepare to enjoy parades, samba groups, music, costumes, and the unrivaled festive atmosphere that fills the streets of the island’s capital.
The History of the Tenerife Carnival
The Carnival of Tenerife traces its roots back to the 16th century, when Spanish colonizers brought this European tradition to the islands. Over time, the celebration grew in popularity among all levels of society, becoming a festival that united people of all social classes. High-society women began wearing masks to participate in the festivities without being recognized, a tradition that continues today.
In 1925, the Tenerife Carnival became more organized with the creation of its first official program, marking the emergence of murgas, samba groups, and other performance groups that are now essential to the festival. In 1980, the carnival earned the designation of “Festival of International Tourist Interest,” and in 1987, it entered the Guinness World Records for gathering the largest number of people at an outdoor dance.
When is the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife Celebrated?
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is an annual event typically held in February or March, coinciding with the winter season in the northern hemisphere. However, due to exceptional circumstances like the 2022 pandemic, the dates may vary, moving to safer periods to ensure the safety of attendees.
During the carnival weeks, the city transforms with a wide variety of Tenerife Carnival activities, from costume contests to musical performances, and the Tenerife Carnival parade, which marks the official start of the street festivities.
The Opening Parade of the Tenerife Carnival
One of the most anticipated events is the opening parade of the Tenerife Carnival, where the carnival officially kicks off with an impressive procession filled with color, music, and floats winding through the main streets of Santa Cruz. This parade is just the beginning of several days of fun and celebration.
Traditional Costumes of the Tenerife Carnival
The costumes of the Tenerife Carnival are famous for their creativity and extravagance. Each year, the candidates for the Carnival Queen dazzle the crowds with spectacular creations full of feathers, sequins, and intricate details, with some costumes weighing dozens of kilos. These costumes, the result of months of work by local designers and artisans, are a key part of the carnival.
In addition to the Queen’s costumes, the residents of Tenerife also actively participate by dressing up, whether individually, in groups, or as families. The diversity and ingenuity in the costumes make the Tenerife Carnival a visual explosion where imagination knows no bounds.
Tips for Enjoying the Tenerife Carnival
To make the most of this incredible celebration, here are some tips for enjoying the Tenerife Carnival:
1. Prepare your costume in advance: Whether you choose to buy it or make it yourself, costumes are an essential part of the carnival. It doesn’t matter if it’s simple or elaborate—what’s important is joining in the festive spirit.
2. Don’t miss the main events: The highlights include the Gala for the Election of the Carnival Queen, the samba parades, and the Tenerife Carnival parade. Additionally, the murgas, musical groups, and drumming bands ensure that there’s always music and fun around every corner.
3. Follow the music: During the carnival, the main squares of Santa Cruz, such as Plaza del Príncipe and Plaza de la Candelaria, are filled with stages hosting live performances. If you follow the sound of the music, you’re sure to find a party that suits your style.
4. Enjoy the local cuisine: While enjoying the carnival, take the opportunity to try Tenerife’s rich cuisine. Street stalls and local restaurants offer a wide variety of traditional dishes to enhance your festive experience.
5. Explore beyond Santa Cruz: Although the main carnival takes place in the capital, other parts of Tenerife also celebrate the carnival in their own way. If you have time, visit the carnivals in other towns to get a fuller experience of the island’s festive spirit.
Featured Activities of the Tenerife Carnival
The Tenerife Carnival offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes. From parades and contests to live performances, the island is filled with music, color, and joy. During the day, you can enjoy the murgas and samba groups, while at night the party continues with concerts and outdoor dances.
For an even more complete experience, we recommend visiting the Casa del Carnaval in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, a space where you can learn about the history and evolution of this incredible festival.
If you want to enjoy a holiday full of colour and festivities, the best time to come to Tenerife is during Carnival. Come and visit us at the wonderful hotels located in Tenerife… the island of eternal spring. An island where the coastline and cliffs look out over the Atlantic Ocean.
With more than 2,000 km² and a mild climate, Tenerife offers a perfect combination of its four strongest features: the Atlantic, wild nature, the most complete services and the always friendly and up-beat personality of its people.
We recommend you visit Bahia Principe Fantasia Tenerife. Where you will find delightful shows and entertainment. Where you will discover the magic of being a child again…
