Carnival in Spain 2026: dates and how it’s celebrated in key cities

Carnival in Spain 2026: street tradition and fun

Carnival in Spain 2026 is celebrated differently in each city, with parades, costumes, music and urban events filling squares and streets. This guide shows how to enjoy it in Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Seville and San Sebastián, with key dates, must-see locations and practical tips.

Madrid: parades, humor and the Burial of the Sardine

• Saturday, February 14: Start at Matadero Madrid with workshops, plaza shows and the Gigantes y Cabezudos parade. At 1 PM, the Grand Parade at Madrid Río. Finish the day with dancing, costume contest and DJ.
• Sunday, February 15: Manteo del Pelele and choruses at Plaza de Matadero, full of humor and traditional songs.
• Wednesday, February 18: Burial of the Sardine from Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida to Fuente del Pajarito with the final bonfire.

Tip: Puente de Toledo for photos, Explanada Negra for atmosphere.

Valencia: neighborhood rhythm and Carnival Market

• Saturday, February 14: Parade from Parque de Malilla to Parc Central with batucadas and costumes.
• Weekend, Feb 14–15: Moll 4 (Parc Central) hosts the Carnival Market with crafts, live music and family activities.

Tip: Use Metrovalencia; avoid driving during parades in Ruzafa.

Seville: creativity, choruses and music

• Saturday, March 7: Bolivian and Ibero-American Carnival from Puerta de Jerez to La Campana with costumes and music.
• March 6–7: FIBES hosts El Falla in Seville: two nights of choruses and satirical performances.

Tip: Combine with Cathedral and Giralda nearby.

Barcelona: neighborhood parades and Burial of the Sardine

• Thursday, February 12: Arribo in Sants-Montjuïc with parade, giants and Taronjada at Parc de l’Espanya Industrial.
• Friday 13 & Saturday 14: Neighborhood parades with local groups and music.
• Wednesday 18: Burial of the Sardine across neighborhoods.

Tip: Combine with Plaça Espanya and Montjuïc for museums and views.

San Sebastián: Basque tradition and historic choruses

• Feb 12–17: Historic choruses and traditions like Caldereros and Inudeak eta Artzaiak.
• Feb 14–15: Main days with floats and choruses in Parte Vieja and Gros.

Tip: Plaza de la Constitución is central; enjoy pintxos afterwards.

Practical tips

• Check dates and times for each city before visiting.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for streets and parades.
• Some events may require prior reservation.
• Public transport is recommended due to street closures.