One of the finest carnivals globally carries a range of traditions and necessities that are indispensable. In Santa Cruz of Tenerife, the streets burst with fancy and vibrancy in February, showcasing a program brimming with competitions, events, recreation, and, most importantly, lots of dancing.
To make the most of these festivities, we propose eight things to keep in mind for relishing the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival.
1. Delight in the grand Carnival procession
The Parade heralding the Carnival sets the stage for the street revelries, slated for Friday, February 9 at 8:00 p.m. in Plaza de la República Dominicana. This nocturnal parade unfurls along Santa Cruz’s major thoroughfares, blossoming into a burst of vitality and fantasy, predominantly led by musical ensembles and troupes from each edition. Within the parade, you can witness the awe-inspiring attire of the carnival queens and principal finalists.
2. Witness Street Murgas Performance
If you plan to catch the murgas contest at the Fairgrounds, don’t miss out on the performances by Nifú-Nifá-Fregolinos at Plaza del Príncipe on February 11, 13, and 18 at 11:00 a.m..
3. Visit the Amusement Park
The whimsical rides, mini bullfights, or the Ferris wheel are other attractions that are a must at these festivities, appealing to both adults and children, although the latter are the ones who revel in these attractions the most.
4. Discover the Finest Attire
Whether as part of a group or individually, donning a costume is imperative at the carnival. The creativity and inventiveness of the carnival attendees result in maximum enjoyment and amusement when they display their finest attire.
5. Consume a papona
Partake in the filled roast potato, famously known as ‘la papona,’ which is a staple dish at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival. Whether it’s during the early afternoon or after an extended night of dancing, the papona is a delightful and satisfying treat. It has recently sparked some controversy due to a price hike to 7 euros.
6. Daytime Revelry
The traditional Day Carnival in Santa Cruz will commence on Sunday February 11th at 1:00 p.m. It will feature musical performances, DJs, and abundant amusement. Families seize this opportunity to dress up their little ones and revel in the street carnival. Furthermore, the second Day Carnival is scheduled for Saturday February 17th, starting at 1:00 p.m.
7. Remembrance of the Sardine
Nostalgia will overwhelm the capital on February 14th at 10:00 p.m. during the emblematic Juan Pablo II Street event, the Remembrance of the Sardine. Mourners wearing black attire bid adieu to the carnival through a ceremony involving the burning of a giant sardine, symbolizing the conclusion of the festivities.
8. A Visit to the Weyler… or Maybe Not
Visiting the Weyler Square, something conventionally done during Carnivals of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, will likely be challenging this year. The ongoing construction work and enclosure around the central fountain make accessibility more restricted than in previous years, when the gardens were only enclosed as a precautionary measure.
