Lanzarote Costa Teguise Carnaval

The Costa Teguise Carnaval is always a highlight here on Lanzarote, drawing both locals and visitors to our lively eastern resort. Each year, the town comes alive with colourful parades, creative costumes, and a wonderful sense of togetherness. Usually taking place in February or March, our Carnaval shares the festive spirit found across the Canary Islands, but Costa Teguise has its own special traditions and character that make it truly memorable.

Carnaval has deep roots here in Lanzarote and across the Canary Islands, with traditions that stretch back to European pre-Lenten festivities. Over the years, these celebrations have taken on a distinctly Canarian flavour, blending Spanish, African, and Latin American influences. 

Costa Teguise, with its beautiful beaches and welcoming atmosphere, has truly made Carnaval its own since the town began to grow as a tourist destination. These days, the event is a wonderful showcase of the creativity and multicultural spirit that make our community so special.

The heart of Costa Teguise Carnaval is always the Grand Parade, or Gran Coso. It’s a joyful procession of colourful floats, lively dance troupes, satirical singing groups, and locals and visitors alike in imaginative costumes. The parade winds its way through the town centre and along the seafront, with crowds lining the route to soak up the atmosphere. Each year’s theme inspires months of preparation, as everyone gets involved in creating something truly special.

The murgas are always a highlight for me—these musical groups perform witty, satirical songs that poke gentle fun at local news and events. Their blend of music and humour is a real crowd-pleaser. The comparsas add even more energy, with their dazzling costumes and infectious dance routines set to Latin and Caribbean rhythms. Together, they create an atmosphere that’s hard not to get swept up in.

Costa Teguise Carnaval is very much a family affair, with plenty for children to enjoy. There’s a special parade just for the little ones, along with costume contests and games that always bring lots of smiles. Local schools and youth groups get involved every year, helping to keep these traditions alive for the next generation.

During Carnaval, the whole town comes alive with open-air parties and concerts. Live bands and DJs keep the music going late into the night, and you’ll find plenty of food stalls serving up Canarian favourites alongside international treats. Many of the local bars and restaurants stay open later than usual, making sure everyone feels welcome to join in the fun.

Like other Carnavals across Lanzarote, the celebrations in Costa Teguise end with the Entierro de la Sardina, or Burial of the Sardine. A giant sardine effigy is carried through the streets before being set alight in a bonfire, with fireworks and music marking the close of the festivities and the start of Lent. It’s a unique and memorable way to say farewell to Carnaval each year.