TBA. Events are usually held in January - February.
The Carnaval of Las Palmas is celebrated in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital city of the Gran Canaria island in Spain.
The Carnaval of Las Palmas is a lively and colorful event and one of the most significant carnivals in Spain and is renowned for its elaborate costumes, vibrant parades, and festive atmosphere. This festival in the Canary Islands is among the oldest and most traditional, drawing both locals and tourists to partake in the festivities.
Dating back to the 16th century, specifically 1574, the Carnaval of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has deep historical roots, originating from a mask and costume ball. This event marked a significant turning point in the island’s history and has gained recognition as a Festival of International Tourist Interest. The celebration continues to captivate audiences, maintaining its status as a cherished and culturally rich tradition.
The Carnaval of Las Palmas typically takes place in February, lasting for several days and culminating in a grand finale. It attracts both locals and tourists, making it a major highlight on the cultural calendar of the Canary Islands. The carnival is a joyful celebration that combines tradition, creativity, and a lively party atmosphere.
The 2027 carnival theme is ‘Music’, transforming the city into a vibrant, rhythm-filled spectacle inspired by global sounds, iconic musical eras, and the colorful energy that connects cultures through song and dance.
In addition to the Drag Queen Gala, there is a separate gala to crown the Queen of the Carnival. This event features a spectacular show with music, dance, and the presentation of the contestants.
A community-driven event, that fosters a sense of togetherness and pride. Locals actively participate in the celebrations, contributing to the overall festive spirit.
The carnival features lively and vibrant parades that wind through the streets of Las Palmas. These parades showcase a diverse array of performances, including traditional dances, music, and theatrical presentations.
A highly anticipated event is the Drag Queen Gala, where contestants showcase elaborate and glamorous drag performances. This gala is known for its entertainment value and the creativity of the participants.
Beyond the organized parades and galas, the streets of Las Palmas come alive with spontaneous parties, live music, and various cultural events.
Murgas are choirs that sing satirical and humorous songs, while comparsas are musical and dance groups that add rhythm and energy to the carnival. Murgas and Comparsas contribute to the lively atmosphere with their performances.
Note: carnival organizers can switch-up routes, times, etc. at the last minute so tap the “ViewAllEvents” button to check for updates.
Las Palmas is easy to reach whether you’re coming from mainland Spain, across Europe, or internationally.
To score the best Carnival fares, compare prices across top travel sites like:
KAYAK – Perfect for comparing flight prices at a glance.
Expedia – Ideal if you want to bundle your flight + hotel.
Trip.com – Great for flexible travel dates and multilingual support.
The best place to stay is in Las Palmas itself, close to the main stages and parade routes. The neighborhoods around Parque Santa Catalina and Las Canteras Beach are especially convenient for Carnival events and nightlife. For those seeking quieter accommodations, areas outside the city like Maspalomas or Playa del Inglés offer resort-style stays, though you’ll need transport back to the city.
Use the above map to find and book stays close to the Carnival parade route!
Getting around Las Palmas during Carnival is easy thanks to its coastal layout and well-connected transport options:
Stroll through Vegueta, the historic heart of Las Palmas, to admire colonial architecture and lively plazas, then hit Las Canteras Beach for sunshine, surf, and seaside dining. Explore Casa de Colón to dive into island history or hike the dramatic trails of Bandama Caldera for sweeping volcanic views. As night falls, the Carnival rhythm heats up along Mesa y López and the beachfront, where music and color fill the air.
We’ve gathered some of our best Carnival travel blogs to help you plan for the Las Palmas Carnival and other festivals worldwide:
Book flights, hotels, and car rentals in one place and score package discounts for your carnival getaway.
Find fun, affordable hostels close to carnival routes and meet other travelers.
Easily book trains across Europe — perfect if you’re visiting multiple carnival cities.
Read real reviews, compare experiences, and book unforgettable adventures to enhance your Carnival getaway.
Stay connected with Airalo eSIMs — affordable, no SIM swaps or roaming stress!
Get reliable travel insurance for medical issues, trip delays, or lost bags.
Stay secure on public Wi-Fi while traveling.
Claim compensation if your carnival flights get delayed or canceled.
