At LOCK & enjoy! we are already anticipating the incredible Las Palmas Carnival. This event has become a key date for all those who love fun, partying and costumes. And if there’s anything that this city is known for, apart for its beaches, it’s this festivity, brimming with magic and colour. Want to find out more? Keep reading to enjoy Carnival in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Carnival in Las Palmas, a world-class event
Known for its magnificence, diversity and creativity, this festive spectacle attracts visitors from all over the world. For a few days, this Canary Island capital city turns into a key destination for the Carnival season thanks to the fusion of culture and entertainment.
And let’s not forget the historical richness behind this carnival. In fact, we need to go back to the 16th century. The earliest references to this festival date back to 1574. To put that in context, the capital of Gran Canaria was founded in 1478. In addition to Spaniards, people from a range of different places had settled there, including Italians. It may have been the Italian presence that was a key factor in masked dances becoming popular in the city.
The first carnival-related socio-cultural institutions appeared in the 19th century. However, in the 20th century, repression during the dictatorship censored the carnival and drove it underground. Instead of celebrating in the street, people gathered at the Royal Club or Victoria Club to party. Festival-goers covered themselves up with sheets on their way there so that no one could see their costumes.
From the 1970s onwards, the Las Palmas Carnival experienced a significant renaissance, with the addition of more elaborate events and activities that attracted a much larger audience – something that has come to the fore in the 21st century. Now, after five centuries in existence, the carnival seems to be more alive than ever.
What’s on offer this year?
Between the 25th of January and the 18th of February, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has prepared four weeks full of fun, programmes and activities for every different interest. At LOCK & enjoy! we want to get in on the action and tell you which events you mustn’t miss at this new instalment of the carnival.
Carnival Nights
Music, of course, is an essential part of the celebration and that’s why Las Palmas is putting on these Carnival Nights. These are evening programmes starring heaps of artists and live music to add the final touch to each day. These special nights will take place on the 2nd, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 16th and 17th of February.
Carnival Queen Gala
One of the celebration’s central events is the gala, where the carnival queen is crowned. This will be held on the 9th of February at 9: 30 pm. At this internationally-renowned spectacle, each candidate presents their fantasy costume before a jury and the audience. These costumes are famous for being genuine works of art, the result of months of work by dedicated artisans.
Drag Queen Gala
On Friday the 16th at 9:30 pm, an incredible show led by drag queens awaits. These artists use intricate costumes, striking make-up and spectacular choreography to captivate the audience and the jury. The competition not only values beauty and creativity, but also artistic talent, charisma and the ability to entertain.
Grand Carnival Parade
This will be held on the 17th of February at 5:00 pm and is the best way to see the majesty of the city with the carnival rhythm. A sight for all five senses, with the route running from Calle Albareda to the Pérez Galdós Theatre.
We make things easy for you with our lockers in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Carnival is undoubtedly a festival that has to be experienced to the full and with all the freedom in the world. That’s why, at LOCK & enjoy! we provide a service with lockers in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Forget lugging your baggage around. With our smart lockers you’ll have a safe place to leave it. No queues, waiting or details; just fun and whatever activities you want to do.
Our location: We are on Calle Fernando Guanarteme. Essentially, LOCK & enjoy! is right in the heart of the city. A strategic spot from which you can reach the sites of Las Palmas and take part in all the activities that this incredible 2024 Carnival has to offer. We are also the cheapest option on the entire island. Take advantage of our exclusive discount code for 20% off this month: CARNAVAL.
Ready to experience Carnival in Las Palmas up close? We’re sure it will be an unforgettable experience. With LOCK & enjoy!, you can make the most of your visit to the incredible island of Gran Canaria. Sun, beaches, light, colour, partying and the incredible magic of Carnival awaits.
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