FEBRUARY, CARNIVAL MONTH!

February has finally arrived bringing with it Carnival, an event which is always looked forward to in the Canaries, a fundamental element of island culture throughout the whole archipelago!

The history of Carnival goes back in time most likely to the arrival of the first conquerers, in the 15th century, even though it´s also incorporated elements of prehispanic culture, as is the case of the  Diabletes (demons) in Teguise, Lanzarote. Dressed up in white suits with black and red patterns, they dawn masks that are part billy goat and part ox and chase kids through the streets of the old capital in order to scare them.

Lanzarote is currently immersed in this popular family madness which is Carnival.

The festivities began on 30th January in the capital city of Arrecife with the drag queen gala and ended on 10th February with the traditional closing sardine burial ceremony. During the course of those ten days the Carnival queens were elected, troupes and street bands competitions were held and last but not least the grand Carnival parade marched through the streets on the eve of Carnival Tuesday.

Nevertheless the other municipalities of the island also celebrate Carnival with masks, floats, parades and street festivals and each one of the seven that make up the island dress up in their best costumes in order to impress and amuse their residents.

  • Puerto Del Carmen (municipality of Tías): Saturday, 13th February
  • Costa Teguise and Tinajo: Saturday, 20th February
  • Haría: Saturday, 27th February
  • Playa Blanca and La Graciosa: Saturday, 5th March

Put on a wig and go out!