Gran Canaria Carnivals: dates and main destinations
The Carnival of Gran Canaria is one of the most important celebrations of the island and is lived intensely in different municipalities. From the large urban carnival in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to the international atmosphere of Maspalomas, the island offers a diverse, festive and unique experience. Throughout the year, each carnival brings its own style, tradition and calendar.
One of the most important and representative celebrations of the island, combining tradition, music, costumes and a festive atmosphere that extends through different municipalities. Throughout the year, Gran Canaria experiences the carnival in many ways: from the great urban and multitudinous carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria to the international and touristic character of the Carnival of Maspalomas.
This diversity makes the island an ideal destination to enjoy the carnival on different dates and scenarios. In this guide you will find the key dates and the main destinations where the carnival is celebrated in Gran Canaria, so you can plan your visit and live closely one of the most emblematic festivals of the Canary Islands.
1. Carnival in Gran Canaria
Carnival in Gran Canaria is one of the most important celebrations of the festive calendar of the island. It is characterized by its diversity, since it is lived in different municipalities and at different times of the year, which allows you to enjoy several carnivals without coinciding exactly in dates.
Tradition and diversity on the island
Each municipality brings its own style, from large urban carnivals to more local and traditional celebrations, keeping the carnival culture alive throughout Gran Canaria.
2. Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the most important and multitudinous of the island. Its program is extensive and has some of the best known events in the Canary Islands.
Main events of the capital's carnival
Among his most outstanding acts are:
The Drag Queen Gala
The Election of the Carnival Queen
The Cavalcade
Carnival by day
Projection and relevance
This carnival has a great media impact and attracts both residents and national and international visitors.
Complete guide:
Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 2026
3. Maspalomas Carnival
The Maspalomas Carnival is celebrated in the south of Gran Canaria and stands out for its marked tourist and international character.
An international and diverse carnival
It is especially popular among European visitors and the LGTBIQ+ community, making it one of the most open and inclusive carnivals in the archipelago.
Most important events
Drag Queen Gala
Grand Carnival Parade
Day Carnival
Theme parties in tourist areas
Complete guide:
Maspalomas Carnival 2026
4. Other carnivals in Gran Canaria
In addition to the major references, other municipalities celebrate carnivals with a strong local identity.
Telde Carnival
The Telde Carnival stands out for its local and family atmosphere, with a program designed for residents and visitors from the east of the island.
Agaete Carnival
The Carnival of Agaete is one of the most traditional in the north of Gran Canaria, known for its proximity, neighborhood participation and popular acts.
5. When are the carnivals celebrated in Gran Canaria?
One of the advantages of Gran Canaria is that its carnivals are spread throughout the year.
General calendar of the carnival on the island
Carnivals in Gran Canaria are celebrated between January and April, depending on the municipality.
Differences in dates depending on the municipality
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: January – February
Telde and northern municipalities: February
Maspalomas and south of the island: March – April
6. Frequently asked questions about the Gran Canaria Carnivals
Below we answer the most common questions about dates, events and practical tips to enjoy the carnival in the different municipalities of the island.
What is the most important carnival in Gran Canaria?
The one in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, due to its size and repercussion.
What is the most touristic carnival?
Maspalomas Carnival, very popular among international visitors.
Are the events free of charge?
Most of the street events are free of charge.
Is carnival suitable for the whole family?
Yes, several family activities have been organized, including shows and workshops adapted for children to enjoy the festive atmosphere.