Maspalomas Carnival 2026: dates, program and main events

The Maspalomas Carnival 2026 will be held from March 10 to 22. This festival, one of the most important in the Canary Islands, will attract local and international visitors. With a theme centered on "The World of the Circus," the carnival will offer a variety of highlights, entertainment and activities for the whole family. A great festive atmosphere is expected in the streets and beaches of southern Gran Canaria.

The Carnival of Maspalomas 2026 will fill the south of Gran Canaria with music, color and fun. With highlights such as the Queen’s Gala, the Drag Queen Gala, parades and outdoor parties, Maspalomas becomes every year a great festive stage.

Thanks to its pleasant climate and lively atmosphere, the carnival offers unique experiences both day and night. In this guide you will find the dates, the program and the main events so you won’t miss anything of this unmissable celebration.

Less time to go

¡La cuenta atrás ha caducado!

1. Dates and location of the Maspalomas Carnival 2026

The Maspalomas Carnival will be held in March 2026, standing out as a main event in the south of Gran Canaria. Thousands of visitors are expected to participate in this festivity that combines culture and fun.

MAR

Announcement Parade

MAR

Presentation of candidates

More information here

Yumbo Shopping Center

2. Program and main events of the Carnival of Maspalomas 2026

The Maspalomas Carnival stands out for its international, inclusive and festive character, attracting thousands of visitors from all over Europe every year.

Maspalomas Carnival Drag Queen Gala

The Drag Queen Gala is the most emblematic event of the carnival. It is held at the Yumbo Centrum and is one of the most anticipated events due to its spectacular nature, humor and creative freedom.

Carnival Queen Gala

The Maspalomas Carnival Queen Election combines tradition and modernity, with colorful fantasies and references to the theme of the year.

International Carnival and LGTBIQ+ atmosphere

The Maspalomas Carnival is one of the most popular in Southern Europe for the LGTBIQ+ public, with theme parties, special events and an open and diverse atmosphere throughout the week.

Great Maspalomas Carnival Parade

The main parade runs through the main tourist avenues, filling Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés with floats, troupes and thousands of people in costume.

Day Carnival in Maspalomas

Carnival by day offers music, costumes and partying in a more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer to enjoy carnival under the sun.

Burial of the Sardine

The Burial of the Sardine brings the celebrations to an end with a symbolic and festive act that marks the official closing of the carnival.

INDEX

3. History and evolution of the Maspalomas Carnival

Although more recent than other carnivals in the Canary Islands, the Maspalomas Carnival has grown rapidly thanks to the tourist development in the south of Gran Canaria.

Origin of the carnival in the south of Gran Canaria

It was born as a local celebration that soon became a tourist reference event.

International growth

Over the years, Maspalomas has become one of the most international carnivals in the Canary Islands, especially attractive for European visitors.

4. Theme of the Carnival of Maspalomas 2026

Maspalomas 2026Each edition of the carnival is organized around an official theme, which sets the style of costumes, decorations and finery.

"Circus World": inspiration from the year 2026.

The theme chosen for this year is “The World of the Circus”, a concept that will transport attendees and participants to a universe full of magic and fun. This choice seeks to highlight creativity and amazement, characteristics of the circus, through a variety of activities and performances.

Design of floats and costumes

The floats will be one of the most prominent elements. Their design will focus on representing different aspects of the circus, from clowns and acrobats to animals and magicians. A display of bright colors and spectacular shapes is expected to capture the attention of all attendees.

Floats decorated with a variety of circus motifs.
Dresses and costumes inspired by the spectacle and fun of the circus.
Props that simulate the typical aesthetics of a circus.

INDEX

5. Living the Carnival of Maspalomas: practical advices

The carnival takes place mainly in tourist areas, which facilitates its enjoyment by international visitors.

Where the Maspalomas Carnival is held

Yumbo Shopping Center
Playa del Inglés
Main avenues of the municipality

Tips to enjoy the carnival

Book accommodation in advance
Use public transportation or cabs
Consult event schedules

Day carnival vs. night carnival

Day: more relaxed atmosphere
Night: parties and large events

6. Frequently asked questions about Maspalomas Carnival 2026

Here you will find the frequently asked questions about the Maspalomas Carnival 2026, with basic information about dates, events and organization to enjoy the carnival in Maspalomas without doubts.