CARNIVAL IS COMING!

Carnival on the Costa Blanca: A Festival of Colour, Music and Tradition!

When February arrives, the Costa Blanca prepares for one of the most vibrant and colourful celebrations of the year: CARNIVAL ! This spectacular event, rooted in Catholic traditions, is an explosion of joy, music and fancy dress. Whether you are in Alicante, Benidorm, Torrevieja or one of the charming villages in the region, you will feel the festive atmosphere everywhere.

But how is carnival celebrated here? What can you expect? And how do the little ones experience this festival? Read on and discover everything about carnival on the sunny Costa Blanca!

The History of Carnival on the Costa Blanca Carnival has its origins in the Catholic tradition and was introduced in Spain centuries ago. The festival served as a last exuberant celebration before Lent began. Although carnival was largely banned during the Franco dictatorship, it flourished again after the 1970s. Today it is one of the most celebrated festivals on the Spanish coast, with the popular festival being a perfect mix of old traditions and modern spectacles.

How is Carnival celebrated on the Costa Blanca?

Carnival on the Costa Blanca is a week of festivities that ends on Ash Wednesday. In 2025, Carnival will take place from 27 February to 4 March . The highlights of the festival are the parades, with floats, dance groups and extravagant costumes filling the streets. Cities such as Alicante and Benidorm host large-scale parades with live music, light shows and fireworks.

One of the most striking traditions is the "Entierro de la Sardina" (Burial of the Sardine). This satirical and humorous ritual marks the end of Carnival and symbolizes the transition to Lent. A giant sardine (usually made of papier-mâché) is burned or buried amidst loud applause and cheers from the crowd. This traditionally takes place on March 4, 2025 .

Carnival in Los Montesinos

Los Montesinos, where the Bel-Chic Properties office is located, celebrates carnival in a cozy and friendly way. Although it is smaller than in the big cities, the atmosphere is no less festive. The streets are decorated, local associations organize parties and there are fancy dress competitions for young and old. Small but lively parades pass by in the center of the village, in which the inhabitants show how creative and festive they are. The local bars and restaurants participate fully with theme nights and special carnival menus, which makes the village buzz with conviviality. The carnival parade in Los Montesinos will take place on March 2, 2025 .

Carnival in Torrevieja

In Torrevieja, carnival is one of the most important festivities of the year. The city organizes spectacular parades that attract thousands of visitors. The parades in Torrevieja are known for their colorful costumes, impressive choreography and energetic music. There are several competitions, including the election of the best float and the most beautiful carnival queen.

A highlight of Torrevieja's carnival is the "Gran Desfile Concurso," in which groups compete for the honor of best carnival group. This event attracts both local participants and international spectators and will take place on March 1, 2025. After the parades, the party continues in the city's bars and clubs, where people dance until the early hours.

What to do during carnival? For both locals and tourists, carnival offers a wide range of activities:

• Carnival parades : In almost every city and village colorful processions pass through the streets with dancers, floats and costumed partygoers.

• Street parties : Bars and squares are transformed into party venues with live bands and DJs.

• Fancy dress competitions : Both children and adults compete to create the most spectacular outfit.

• Theatre and satire : Humorous performances and parodies of social themes are an essential part of the festival.

• Children's activities : For the little ones there are special events such as craft workshops, children's parades and mini discos.

Carnival in nurseries and schools

Carnival is not only a party for adults, but also for children. In nurseries and schools on the Costa Blanca it is celebrated exuberantly with special carnival days, which usually take place in the days leading up to the carnival weekend.

• Fancy Dress Parties : Preschoolers and school children come to school in their best costumes, ranging from princesses and superheroes to pirates and animals.

• Craft sessions : Children make their own masks, hats and other carnival decorations.

• Mini parades : Some schools organize their own parade in which the children walk through the neighborhood with their teachers.

• Dance and music : Special dance performances and musical performances provide extra atmosphere.

• Carnival breakfast : Some schools organize a special breakfast with treats such as churros with chocolate.

Come celebrate Carnival on the Costa Blanca! Whether you like to dance, enjoy colourful parades or simply want to immerse yourself in the cheerful atmosphere: Carnival on the Costa Blanca has something for everyone. This party connects people, lets creativity flourish and brings an explosion of joy to the streets. So put on your best costume, let yourself be carried away by the music and celebrate Carnival Spanish style!