What is Torrevieja Carnival 2026?

Torrevieja Carnival 2026 is one of the most colorful and anticipated cultural events on the Costa Blanca, featuring parades, costume shows, music, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the city.

When is Torrevieja Carnival 2026?

The 2026 Torrevieja Carnival will take place from January 30 to February 21, with main events concentrated on weekends.

Where does the Torrevieja Carnival take place?

Most events occur in the historic center of Torrevieja, especially around Plaza de la Constitución and Calle Ramón Gallud.

Do I need tickets for the carnival?

Entry to most events is free, but some gala shows like the Drag Queen Contest or National Comparsas Contest require tickets.

Is Torrevieja Carnival suitable for children?

Yes, there is a separate children’s program including workshops, parades, and entertainment suitable for families.

What is the Drag Queen Contest 'Ciudad de Torrevieja'?

It is a gala show featuring Drag Queen performers from across Spain, with performances, contests, and costume presentations included in the official carnival program.

What is Carnaval de Gente Mayor?

A special program for senior citizens featuring music, dance performances, parades, and contests tailored to older participants.

Are there night parades?

Yes, the carnival includes evening and night parades with music, lighting effects, and a festive atmosphere.

What musical styles are at the carnival?

A variety of music genres are featured, including pop, Latin rhythms, street bands, percussion ensembles, and live performances.

Can I photograph or record videos?

Yes, photography and video recording for personal use are allowed, but visitors should respect performers and not obstruct parades.

What types of costumes are worn?

Participants wear colorful, creative costumes with feathers, sequins, masks, and decorative elements, showcasing unique themes and performances.

What competitions take place?

Competitions include costume contests, dance competitions, music performances, and the Grand Parade Carnival Contest 2026, judging creativity and visual presentation.

What is the cultural significance of the carnival?

The carnival supports Torrevieja’s cultural heritage, promotes local artists, attracts tourism, and fosters creative expression in the city.

Are there animal parades?

Yes, pets and their owners participate in costume parades and contests during the Animal Carnival.

When is the main parade?

The main parade, Gran Desfile de Carnaval, will take place on February 8, 2026, starting at 16:00 from the Virgen del Carmen Cultural Centre.

What is Teatrico del Carnaval?

A theatrical comedy show held at the Municipal Theatre featuring carnival-themed performances.

Are there special events for schools?

Yes, school groups participate in 'El Carnaval de los Coles,' including parades and street performances on February 13, 2026.

What should visitors know about street closures?

During main parades, streets in the historic center may be closed, so visitors should plan to arrive early and follow official routes.

Where can I buy tickets for gala events?

Tickets for gala shows like Drag Queen Contest or National Comparsas are available through official cultural and theatre websites.

Is the carnival free to attend?

Most events are free, including parades and children’s programs, but some evening shows require tickets.

Torrevieja Carnival 2026 - Dates, Schedule & Events

Home Events - Costa Blanca Space Culture Сelebration Torrevieja Carnival 2026

Torrevieja Carnival 2026

Contents hide

1 Torrevieja Carnival 2026

2 Torrevieja Carnival 2026 Dates

3 Torrevieja Carnival 2026 Program

3.1 Official Opening

3.2 Carnival Parades

3.3 Contests and Shows

3.4 Children’s Program

4 Torrevieja Carnival 2026 Schedule

5 Atmosphere and Highlights of Torrevieja Carnival

6 Visitor Information

7 Who Should Attend

8 Cultural Significance

9 Tips for Visitors

10 FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Torrevieja Carnival 2026

11 Conclusion

The Torrevieja Carnival is one of the most colorful and highly anticipated cultural events on the Costa Blanca. Every year, it attracts thousands of residents and visitors, offering vibrant parades, costume shows, and a rich entertainment program.

The carnival is held annually in February and does not have fixed dates, as it follows the church calendar and takes place before the beginning of Lent. Major events traditionally fall on weekends.

Torrevieja Carnival 2026 Dates

In 2026, the celebrations will take place in an atmosphere of music, costumes, and festive street parades from January 30 to February 21, 2026.

Torrevieja Carnival 2026 Program

Official Opening

The carnival begins with the ceremonial opening – pregón – announcing the start of the festive events.

Carnival Parades

The main event is the Gran Desfile – the grand carnival parade featuring local and invited groups. Participants showcase vibrant costumes, dance performances, and themed floats.

Contests and Shows

The carnival features costume contests, musical performances, and popular shows, including the Drag Queen Gala and performances by satirical ensembles.

Children’s Program

For families with children, there are separate activities including children’s parades, entertainment programs, and daytime festivities.

Torrevieja Carnival 2026 Schedule

January 30, 2026 – Carnival Opening (Pregón del Carnaval)

Time: 21:00
Location: Torrevieja Municipal Theatre

Traditional official opening with the announcement of the festival start, a guest artist performance, presentation of the Escudo de Oro 2026, and screening of a documentary about the carnival.
Ticket price: €5

January 31, 2026 – Coronation of the Kings and Queens

Time: 18:00 and 21:00 (two sessions)
Location: Torrevieja Municipal Theatre

Coronation of the carnival king and queens of 2026 – a colorful show with music and dance performances.
Ticket price: €5

February 1, 2026 – Animal Carnival

Time: from 12:00 (noon)
Location: Calle Concepción

Parade of costumed pets and a contest for the best costume organized by the local animal community.

February 6, 2026 – Costume Parade “La Quedada Carnavalera”

Time: 20:30
Location: Plaza de la Constitución

Costume parade “La Quedada Carnavalera” with marching bands along the streets and a contest for the best improvised costume.
Parade route: Calle Concepción – Calle Fotógrafos Darblade – Plaza Isabel II – Calle Joaquín Chapaprieta – Plaza Isaac Albéniz – Calle Miguel Hernández – Paseo Vista Alegre – Casino de Torrevieja – Plaza Waldo Calero – Calle Torreviejas Ausentes – Plaza de Oriente.

February 7, 2026 – Drag Queen Contest “Ciudad de Torrevieja”

Time: 19:00
Location: Torrevieja International Concert Hall

18th Gala show featuring Drag Queen performers from across Spain.
Ticket price: €10

February 8, 2026 – Grand Parade of the Carnival (Gran Desfile de Carnaval)

Time: from 16:00
Location: Virgen del Carmen Cultural Centre

The central event of the carnival – a colorful parade with local and invited groups, music, and street processions.

February 11–12, 2026 – Children’s Carnival Events

Carnival workshops, parades, and other activities in the city’s middle schools.

February 12, 2026 – Senior Citizens’ Carnival (Carnaval de Gente Mayor)

Time: 18:00
Location: Municipal Leisure Centre

Festivities for senior participants with music and costumes.

February 13, 2026

Time: 17:00
Location: Plaza de la Constitución

“El Carnaval de los Coles” – a street carnival of school groups with parades and mass entertainment.

Time: 20:30
Location: Calle Ramón Gallud

Parade of Foreign Comparsas – a festive parade of groups from other Spanish cities. After the parade, there will be a party followed by an awards ceremony at Plaza de la Constitución.

February 14, 2026 – Main Costume Parade in Torrevieja (Desfile de Carnaval Nocturno)

Time: from 20:00
Location: Calle Ramón Gallud

Nighttime costume parade with special visual effects and a final awards ceremony at Plaza de la Constitución.

February 15, 2026 – Carnival Theatre Show (Teatrico del Carnaval)

Time: 18:00
Location: Torrevieja Municipal Theatre

Comedy theatre performance “Teatrico del Carnaval 2006” at the Municipal Theatre.

February 21, 2026 – National Comparsas and Chirigotas Contest

Time: 18:00
Location: Torrevieja International Concert Hall

Final musical and comedy competition with the best groups from across Spain.
Ticket price: €10

Main Locations

Most major parades and street events take place in the historic center of Torrevieja – on the streets and squares around Plaza de la Constitución and Calle Ramón Gallud, where stages and spectator areas are set up.

Atmosphere and Highlights of Torrevieja Carnival

The Torrevieja Carnival stands out for its vibrant visual presentation, variety of musical styles, and active participation of international groups, reflecting the city’s multicultural character.

Visitor Information

Entry to most events is free
It is recommended to arrive early for a good view of the parades
During major parades, street closures in the city center are expected

Who Should Attend

The carnival is suitable for tourists, families with children, music lovers, fans of costume shows, and anyone interested in Spanish culture.

Cultural Significance

The festival supports the city’s cultural life, promotes local artists, and strengthens Torrevieja’s appeal as a tourist destination.

Tips for Visitors

Arrive 30–60 minutes early for the main parades.
Night parades are especially popular, so plan your participation in advance.
Some gala concerts require tickets (available through official cultural and theatre portals).

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Torrevieja Carnival 2026

What is the Drag Queen Contest “Ciudad de Torrevieja”? – A gala show featuring Drag Queen performers, with colorful performances, competition acts, and costume displays. The event is part of the official carnival program.
What is the Senior Citizens’ Carnival (Carnaval de Gente Mayor)? – A special part of the carnival program dedicated to senior participants, including music, dance performances, parades, and competition shows.
Are there night events? – Yes, the carnival includes night parades and evening shows accompanied by music, lighting effects, and a festive atmosphere.
What musical and dance styles are present? – The carnival features a variety of musical genres: pop, Latin rhythms, street bands, and percussion groups. Dance ensembles perform routines with elements of traditional and modern choreography.
Can I take photos and videos? – Yes, visitors can photograph and record videos for personal use. It is recommended to respect participants and not obstruct parade routes.
What costumes do participants wear? – Participants wear bright, colorful costumes with feathers, sequins, masks, and decorations. Each group demonstrates unique creativity and festive spirit.
What competitions take place during the carnival? – Costume contests, dance competitions, musical performances, and the main parade competition (Grand Parade Carnival Contest 2026), where creativity, visual design, and group performances are judged.
What is the cultural significance of the carnival? – The carnival strengthens Torrevieja’s cultural traditions, supports artists, attracts tourists, and promotes the development of local tourism and creativity.
Are there animal parades? – Yes, part of the program is dedicated to animal parades, where pets and their owners participate in costume processions and contests.

Conclusion

Torrevieja Carnival 2026 offers a full month of events – from the colorful grand parade to theatrical and musical shows. It is a unique opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of Spanish carnival on the Mediterranean coast.