Tenerife Carnivals: Santa Cruz and other municipalities
Carnival in Tenerife is one of the most important celebrations of the Canary Islands and one of the best known internationally. Although it is celebrated in different municipalities of the island, the main protagonism falls on Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which concentrates the most multitudinous and media events.
The Carnivals of Tenerife are one of the most emblematic festivals of the island and enjoy enormous national and international recognition. Although the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife concentrates the most multitudinous and mediatic events, the carnival spirit extends to other municipalities, each with its own style, tradition and atmosphere.
This diversity allows you to enjoy the carnival in different scenarios and dates, combining large galas, parades and street celebrations with more local and local carnivals. In this guide you will discover the main carnivals of Tenerife and the keys to live one of the most spectacular celebrations of the Canary archipelago.
1. Carnival in Tenerife
Tenerife's carnival combines tradition, spectacle and enormous popular participation. For several weeks, the island is filled with music, costumes and celebrations both day and night.
Cultural and tourist importance
The Tenerife Carnival is one of the great tourist attractions of the winter, attracting thousands of national and international visitors and placing the island as a world reference of carnival.
2. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the most important of the island and one of the most famous carnivals in the world. It stands out for its spectacular nature, its long tradition and the magnitude of its events.
Main carnival events
Highlights include:
Carnival Queen Election Gala
Murga competitions
Comparsas and choreographic groups
Announcing Cavalcade
Carnival by day and carnival by night
Burial of the Sardine
International projection
This carnival has worldwide recognition and is often compared to great carnivals such as those of Rio de Janeiro or Venice, becoming the main festive showcase of Tenerife.
Complete guide:
Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife 2026
3. Other carnivals in Tenerife
In addition to the capital's carnival, other municipalities celebrate carnivals with their own identity and a more local atmosphere.
Puerto de la Cruz Carnival
The Carnival of Puerto de la Cruz is one of the most traditional of the north of the island, known for its strong citizen participation and popular acts.
Los Cristianos Carnival
The Carnival of Los Cristianos, in the south of Tenerife, stands out for its touristic character and its proximity to holiday areas.
Candelaria Carnival
The Candelaria Carnival offers a more family atmosphere, with activities designed for all audiences.
4. When Carnival is celebrated in Tenerife
The carnival calendar varies slightly according to the municipality, but is mainly concentrated in the first months of the year.
General calendar of the carnival on the island
January – February: Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
February – March: Carnivals in other municipalities
This allows you to enjoy the carnival in different parts of the island over several weeks.
5. Frequently asked questions about the Tenerife 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 Tenerife?
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the largest and most recognized of the island.
Is the Tenerife Carnival free?
Most street events are free, although some galas may require admission.
What is the best day to go to the carnival?
The Cabalgata and the daytime Carnival are usually the most popular moments.
Is the carnival suitable for families?
Yes, especially during daytime events and activities organized for children.