The Carnaval de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a vibrant annual festival held each winter, featuring flamboyant costumes, street dances, parades of floats, murgas (satirical music troupes), and the famous Drag Queen Gala 1. It is one of the oldest and most traditional festivals in the Canary Islands 1. Locals and visitors fill the streets for weeks of events including evening parades and open-air concerts. Expect lively music and dance performances, elaborate costumes, and a festive carnival atmosphere focusing around Santa Catalina Park and surrounding areas.
Rooted in Canarian festivity traditions, Las Palmas' carnival blends local folklore with modern pageantry. The key event is the Drag Queen Gala, reflecting the islands’ inclusive and celebratory culture. It also features traditional folk-dance groups and community murgas—groups that have been creating humorous songs for decades 1. Carnival reflects Gran Canaria’s social heritage and identity.
Venues and routes
Parque de Santa Catalina · Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Parque de Santa Catalina
Main · Main festival grounds (stages, concerts, parades central hub) · Parque de Santa Catalina, s/n, 35007 · Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Avenida de las Canteras
Parade route for costumed troupes · Avenida de las Canteras, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria · Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Parque Santa Catalina
Main stage for drag gala and opening parade · C. Albareda, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria · Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The dates that shape the visit.
Day 31 · Wed, Feb 3
Evening event with theatrical drag performances as the carnival's highlight
Arrive early for seating; brings the largest crowds and vibrant energy of the festival
Day 35 · Sun, Feb 7
Colorful procession of floats and performers through the main streets ending at Santa Catalina Park
Line the route early (by 15:30) for best view; festive atmosphere with music and dancing
Final day · Tue, Feb 9
Traditional closing ritual in which a symbolic sardine is paraded and 'buried' at Santa Catalina Park
Crowds gather for the dramatic finale; bring a jacket for evening and watch the satirical procession
A compact reference once the trip is real.
Practical notes refreshed Mar 4.
Tickets required · Typical price: €10 - €15
High crowds · Energetic energy
Very crowded at major events; find space early or on the edges for more breathing room
Generally safe event with visible police presence; stay aware in large crowds
Mild winter climate · Events continue in light rain
Daily budget: €50-80 · Drinks: €2-5 (soft drinks, beer)
Eat at local markets or tapas bars; use public transit instead of taxis.
From center: Santa Catalina is within walking distance.