> Quick Answer: Las Palmas Carnival 2026 runs 23 January – 1 March (38 days), making it the second largest carnival in the world after Rio de Janeiro. Key events include the Drag Queen Gala (20 Feb, 30,000+ live spectators), the Grand Parade (28 Feb along Mesa y López) and the street parties at Parque Santa Catalina. Casita Palmera is within walking distance of all main venues.
Las Palmas Carnival: A Unique Celebration
The Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival is one of the most impressive shows in Europe and is considered the second most important carnival in the world, only behind Rio de Janeiro. For nearly 6 weeks, the city transforms into a giant stage of colour, music, dance and creativity.
With more than 200,000 visitors each year and a history spanning over 500 years, this carnival combines Canarian tradition with international spectacle. The average temperature during carnival is 20°C, perfect for enjoying outdoor festivities.
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2026 Carnival Dates
Las Palmas Carnival 2026 is celebrated under a theme to be revealed in January. Here are the key dates:
Official Calendar 2026
| Event | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnival Opening | 23 January | 20:00 | Parque Santa Catalina |
| Children's Queen Gala | 13 February | 19:00 | Parque Santa Catalina |
| Drag Queen Gala | 20 February | 21:00 | Parque Santa Catalina |
| Carnival Queen Gala | 21 February | 21:00 | Parque Santa Catalina |
| Daytime Carnival | 22-23 February | 12:00-20:00 | Las Canteras Promenade |
| Mogollón (Street Party) | 22-28 February | 22:00-06:00 | Parque Santa Catalina |
| Grand Parade | 28 February | 17:00 | Mesa y López |
| Burial of the Sardine | 1 March | 20:00 | Parque Santa Catalina |
Total Duration
- Official start: 23 January 2026
- End: 1 March 2026
- Duration: 38 days of celebration
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Main Events
Drag Queen Gala
The Drag Queen Gala is the most media-covered event of the Carnival and one of Spain's most famous shows. It attracts more than 30,000 live spectators and millions watching on television.
#### Features
- Duration: 4-5 hours of show
- Participants: 15-20 candidates
- Prize: €5,000 for the winner
- Broadcast: Live on Canarian Television
#### History
Created in 1998, it was Spain's first drag gala. Each year participants push the limits of creativity with:
- Platforms up to 3 metres high
- Costumes weighing up to 50 kg
- Special effects, fire, water and pyrotechnics
- Choreographies lasting up to 15 minutes
#### Tickets
- Price: €20-80 depending on location
- Sales: carnavaldelaspalmas.com
- Tip: They sell out in 24-48 hours, buy as soon as they're released
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Carnival Queen Gala
The Queen Gala is the most traditional and elegant carnival event. Candidates wear spectacular costumes that can weigh up to 150 kg and reach 4 metres in height.
#### The Show
- Participants: 10-15 candidates
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Designers: The best from the Canary Islands and Spain
- Budget per costume: €20,000-60,000
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The Grand Parade
The Carnival Parade is a 4-hour procession with more than 150 groups and 15,000 participants. It runs through the main streets of the city.
#### Route (3.5 km)
#### What to See
- Floats: 30+ themed floats
- Comparsas: Dance groups with choreographies
- Murgas: Satirical musical groups
- Batucadas: Brazilian percussion
- Mascaritas: Creative individual costumes
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The Mogollón
The Mogollón is the Carnival's night party. Parque Santa Catalina becomes a massive open-air disco with:
- 5 stages with different musical styles
- Free entry (some VIP areas charge)
- Hours: 22:00 - 06:00
- Capacity: Up to 50,000 people per night
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Where to Watch the Carnival
Main Locations
| Area | Event Type | Atmosphere | Distance from Casita Palmera |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parque Santa Catalina | Galas, Mogollón | Festive, massive | 600 metres |
| Mesa y López | Parade | Family, traditional | 1.2 km |
| Las Canteras Promenade | Daytime Carnival | Beach, relaxed | 30 metres |
| Vegueta | Murgas, comparsas | Cultural, local | 2 km |
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Costumes: Everything You Need to Know
Is Fancy Dress Mandatory?
Not legally mandatory, but socially yes. Going to Carnival without a costume is considered "being in underwear" - it's simply not done. Even locals who just pop out for a drink wear at least a wig or accessory.
Where to Buy Costumes in Las Palmas
| Shop | Address | Average Price | Speciality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlequín | C/ General Vives, 5 | €30-80 | Complete costumes |
| Party Fiesta | CC Las Arenas | €15-50 | Accessories, wigs |
| Don Disfraz | Mesa y López | €20-60 | Variety, economic |
| Euro shops | Various | €5-15 | Basic accessories |
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Carnival Gastronomy
Typical Foods
| Dish | Description | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| Calamari sandwich | The chiringuito classic | €5-8 |
| Papas arrugadas with mojo | Essential Canarian | €4-6 |
| Roast pork leg | Grilled pork leg | €3-5 |
| Carnival tortilla | With chorizo and ham | €3-4 |
| Churros with chocolate | For the after-party | €4 |
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Transport During Carnival
Traffic Restrictions
During main events, central Las Palmas closes to traffic:
- Parque Santa Catalina and surroundings
- Mesa y López (parade day)
- Las Canteras Promenade (weekends)
How to Get Around
| Transport | Availability | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Guaguas (bus) | Special night service | €1.40 |
| Taxi | High demand, normal rates | €5-15 city centre |
| On foot | Most recommended | Free |
| Bicycle | Sitycleta runs 24h | €3/day |
Golden Tip
Stay near the centre. Casita Palmera is 600 metres from Parque Santa Catalina - you can walk back at any time without relying on transport.---
Practical Tips
Before Coming
During Carnival
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Why Stay at Casita Palmera During Carnival
Privileged Location
- 600 metres from Parque Santa Catalina (epicentre)
- 30 metres from Daytime Carnival at Las Canteras
- 100 metres from Auditorio Alfredo Kraus
- You can walk to and from anywhere at any time
Amenities
- Full kitchen: Cook your food and save
- High-speed WiFi: Share your costume on social media
- Air conditioning: Rest well after the party
- Washing machine: Wash your costume for the next day
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is Las Palmas Carnival 2026?
Carnival 2026 starts on 23 January with the opening and ends on 1 March with the Burial of the Sardine. Main events are the Drag Queen Gala (20 February), Queen Gala (21 February) and the Grand Parade (28 February).
How much do gala tickets cost?
Tickets for the Drag Queen Gala and Queen Gala cost between €20 and €80 depending on location. Buy at carnavaldelaspalmas.com - they sell out very quickly, sometimes in 24-48 hours.
Is Las Palmas Carnival suitable for children?
Yes, especially the Daytime Carnival and the Parade. The night atmosphere of the Mogollón is more adult, but there are family areas. The Children's Gala (13 February) is specifically for children.
Do I absolutely need a costume?
Not legally required, but highly recommended. Going without a costume is considered out of place. You can find cheap costumes from €15 in city shops.
What's the weather like during Carnival?
Average temperature is 18-22°C during the day and 15-18°C at night. Bringing a light jacket for the early hours is recommended. Rain is very rare.
Is there public transport at night?
Yes, guaguas (buses) have special night service during Carnival. However, the most practical option is to stay near the centre and walk.
Is Las Palmas Carnival safe?
Yes, it's a very safe event with police presence, Red Cross and Punto Violeta (support point). As at any massive event, watch your belongings and avoid carrying unnecessary valuables.
How much money do I need for Carnival?
Depends on your style:
- Low budget: €30-50/day (chiringuito drinks, simple food)
- Medium budget: €80-120/day (event tickets, restaurants, costumes)
- High budget: €150+/day (VIP tickets, premium restaurants)
Looking for a vacation rental apartment?
Casita Palmera is a licensed vacation rental apartment 50 metres from Las Canteras Beach.
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