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When Carnival arrives, the streets of Catalonia transform into stages where everything is allowed: impossible costumes, movie-like floats, satire, and a lot of partying. If there's a celebration that can turn any city or village into a spectacle of light, music, and madness, it's undoubtedly Carnival. Here's a guide to the best Carnivals in Catalonia that you can't miss if you want to experience this explosion of color and fun.
Carnival of Sitges (Garraf)
The Sitges Carnival is undoubtedly one of the must-see Carnivals in Catalonia. Wondering why? Just take a look at the "Rua de l'Extermini" or the "Rua de la Disbauxa": feathers, glitter, countless spectacular floats, and jaw-dropping choreography. We also recommend the grand gala of the drag-queen contest, typically held on the iconic Fragata beach. At the same venue, you'll find the presentation of the Carnestoltes King and the Carnival Queen, inspired by Venetian traditions. The Sitges Carnival, as you'll see, is something you have to experience at least once in your life.
Carnival in Torelló (Osona)
Welcome to the Carnival of Terra Endins. Torelló, in Osona, takes the fun to the next level with the famous "Pullassu", a satirical-sexual parade that kicks off the festivities and fills the streets with humor and criticism. And don't miss the Senyoretes i els Homenots party, where men and women swap outfits for a night of fun. The highlight, however, is the Carnival Parade, where floats and groups compete for creativity and spectacle. If you want to experience a celebration where nothing is as it seems, make sure this Carnival is on your list.
Carnival in Platja d'Aro (Baix Empordà)
If you want to party by the sea, the Carnival of Platja d'Aro is the place for you. The Grand Parade of Floats and Comparsas is one of the most popular on the Costa Brava, featuring over 4,000 participants who give it their all to amaze the audience. Here, costumes are pure creativity, floats look like they've come straight out of a movie, and the party goes on for hours and hours. This is why it's undoubtedly one of the best Carnivals on the Costa Brava.
Carnival of Solsona (Solsonès)
For a completely unique Carnival experience, Solsona awaits you with open arms. Its Carnival is one of the oldest and most distinctive in Catalonia. Forget about giant floats. Here, the stars are the "gegants bojos" (crazy giants), local groups, and irreverent parodies like the "la penjada del ruc" (hanging of the donkey) — a papier-mâché donkey — from the bell tower, followed by the “la pixada" (pee ceremony). It's one of the festival's most awaited moments.
Carnival in Tarragona (Tarragonès)
In Tarragona, Carnival is celebrated with great enthusiasm. The Rua de l'Artesania and Rua de la Disbauxa are spectacular: featuring over 3,000 participants who work all year to deliver this unforgettable event. Highlights include the Rua de Lluïment, featuring the 15 winning groups from the previous year, and the spectacular Gala de la Disfressa d'Or (Golden's Custom Contest), where groups showcase magical and incredible creations. This Carnival is perfect for combining the festivities with a bit of history by visiting Tarragona's main tourist attractions.
Carnival of Vilanova i la Geltrú (Garraf)
Vilanova i la Geltrú boasts one of the most traditional and family-friendly Carnivals in Catalonia. Declared a Traditional Festival of National Interest in 1985, it's a celebration rooted in tradition that begins on Saturday with the "Ball de Mantons" and the "xatonada", and continues on Fat Thursday and Friday with the "Arrivo". Sunday is the main event with the comparsas and the famous candy war, where groups compete by throwing candies in a fun and delicious street battle.
Carnival of Olot (La Garrotxa)
In Olot, Carnival is all about humor and social criticism. As tradition dictates, it starts a week later than in the coastal towns. The carnival parade is notable for the participation of local groups, who seize the opportunity to deliver political and cultural satire with original and witty costumes. It's a more intimate Carnival, but with all the passion of a city that knows how to celebrate.
Carnival of Palamós (Baix Empordà)
In Palamós, Carnival is a deeply rooted celebration that combines tradition with spectacle. As one of the pioneering Carnivals of the Costa Brava, its Saturday Grand Parade is the main attraction, featuring floats and groups parading through the town's main streets. It's a family-friendly Carnival with parades — the "Vesprà" and the "Despertà" — music, and a welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
Carnival in Barcelona (Barcelonès)
The Catalan capital is not far behind. In Barcelona, Carnival is celebrated in diverse ways, with events across the city's neighborhoods. Unlike other Catalan cities, Barcelona's districts — Horta, Sant Andreu, Sarrià, Gràcia, Sants, Les Corts, and Sant Martí — each host their own parades. In total, there are 25 parades. The Rua del Rei Carnestoltes is the central event, but you'll also find food markets, children's parties, and cultural activities.
With this list, you've got Carnival plans to give and take. Whether you're into costumes, floats, or just want to soak up the festive atmosphere, the streets of Catalonia are waiting for you. So, what are you waiting for? Find a costume, book a cozy rural house, and get ready to experience the wildest party of the year.