Tenerife gears up for a fantastic “futuristic” fun-filled carnival

Tenerife is gearing up to host another spectacular Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife from 11th – 22nd February 2015, as hundreds of thousands of locals and tourists prepare to flock to the capital to party and soak up the atmosphere.

Considered the world’s second largest festival of its kind after Rio, the exotic street party is a two week day-into-night magical experience that encapsulates the spirit and pride of the islanders, and welcomes visitors of all ages from around the world. 

Declared a Tourist Festival of International Interest in 1980, each year the event focuses on a different theme, and this year’s will pay tribute to “the future” and will be the source of inspiration for the festival’s floats and flamboyant costumes.

The “Gran Gala Election of the Queen” (Wednesday 11th February) kicks off the proceedings, and this year will see 14 young women presented as candidates, all hoping to be crowned Carnival Queen.  However the real party starts on the streets of Santa Cruz two days later (Friday 13th February) with the Opening Procession, a parade where the “Queen”, her bridesmaids, costumed performers, musical groups, comedy artists and dance troops weave their way through different parts of the city on floats, as the public line the roads to witness the spectacle. There are also a number of performance stages around the city where visitors can dance, drink and celebrate. 

February is a great time to visit Tenerife and make the most of the Spring-like weather. Visitors can choose to bask in the sun on the many golden and black sand beaches dotted around the island or tour the incredible natural landscapes, such as Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Access to the street party and Opening Procession during Carnival in Santa Cruz is free for visitors, although a limited number of events are ticketed, such as, the “Gran Gala Election of the Queen”. Buses, taxis and private transfers are frequently available from Tenerife South airport to Santa Cruz.

carnavaldetenerife.com/en/santa-cruz-2015/#alojamiento

For accommodation in Santa Cruz please visit:

carnavaldetenerife.com/en/blog/Items%20de%20portfolio/donde-dormir/

If heading to the capital is a little too much for some, many of the island’s towns and villages will be joining in the celebrations with their own lively street parades and parties, so the atmosphere created at Carnival time will be felt by visitors wherever they choose to stay on the island.