Petardazo (Opening Fireworks)
Arrive just before midnight to join the countdown; fireworks are loud and exciting
~0:00
Xinzo de Limia Carnival
Entroido de Xinzo de Limia
Xinzo de Limia, Spain
Jan 16 - Feb 14, 2027Expected
Each winter, the Galician town of Xinzo de Limia holds what it calls the longest carnival in Spain, weeks of ritual revelry called the Entroido. Masked figures known as pantallas, swinging inflated bladders, chase down anyone they find not in costume, in a wild celebration with roots in ancient pre-Christian rites.
Key moments
Day 1 · Jan 16
Day 29 · Feb 13
Grand Parade (Desfile do Entroido)
Find a spot along the route by mid-afternoon; expect a festive, colorful atmosphere
~17:00 - 19:30
Day 30 · Feb 14
Descolgamento do Meco (Effigy Removal)
Gather early in the Main Square; a solemn but festive finale
~21:00
Where it happens
Praza Maior
Xinzo de Limia, Spain
Open in MapsHow to show up well
Respect local boundaries
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the public festivities (especially in costume), but should...
Practical notes
Crowds & timing
Main square and parade routes are very crowded; peripheral areas less so
Weather
Cold in winter evenings; occasional rain possible
Transport
MonBus L1 from Ourense bus station (51 min) and other regional buses
Tickets
Free events are available.
Safety & access
Well-policed and orderly. Use normal caution in crowds.
Reviewed mediaMAJOR COMMUNITY & FOLK LIFE
Xinzo de Limia Carnival
Entroido de Xinzo de Limia
Xinzo de Limia, Spain
Each winter, the Galician town of Xinzo de Limia holds what it calls the longest carnival in Spain, weeks of ritual revelry called the Entroido. Masked figures known as pantallas, swinging inflated bladders, chase down anyone they find not in costume, in a wild celebration with roots in ancient pre-Christian rites.
AnchorCultural anchor
Jan 16 - Feb 14, 2027Expected dates
Verified this year
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The story behind it
The Entroido roots lie in pre-Christian and medieval rites marking the start of Lent. In Galicia, the Limia region preserved these ancient customs, combining agrarian spring rites and communal humor. It reflects Galicians' attachment to folklore, communal identity, and the joy of bottomless winter provoked by masquerades and processions.
Key moments to know
Day 1Jan 16~0:00Expected
Petardazo (Opening Fireworks)
Arrive just before midnight to join the countdown; fireworks are loud and exciting
Day 29Feb 13~17:00 - 19:30Expected
Grand Parade (Desfile do Entroido)
Find a spot along the route by mid-afternoon; expect a festive, colorful atmosphere
Day 30Feb 14~21:00Expected
Descolgamento do Meco (Effigy Removal)
Gather early in the Main Square; a solemn but festive finale
How to show up well
first-timer tips
Respect local boundaries
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the public festivities (especially in costume), but should respect local parti...
Essentials at a glance
Date window
Jan 16 - Feb 14, 2027
Estimated
City / Area
Xinzo de Limia
Galicia (Ourense, Limia)
Access
Vigo (VGO) · 77 km from festival
Cost
Free entry
Budget: €50-80, Mid: €100-150, Comfort: €200+
Atmosphere
Festive and lively throughout, with high energy especially during p...
Main square and parade routes are very crowded; periphera...
Good for
Families, culture enthusiasts
Moderate visitor welcome
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