The Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 2025 kicked off with exuberance on February 8, and will continue to dazzle locals and visitors alike until March 16. Set against the vibrant theme of the Olympic Games, which were celebrated last summer in Paris, this year's festivities offer a feast of music, masks, and merriment. From colorful parades to thrilling competitions and fantastical performances, the Carnival is once again capturing the hearts of the community.
One of the highlights of the Carnival was the recent contest of comparsas, held at the Parque Santa Catalina, where six groups vied for top honors. The crowd watched with bated breath as Baracoa achieved first place with their mesmerizing performance titled ‘Latiendo más fuerte que nunca’ and stunning costume ‘¿Lo apostamos todo?’. The success of Baracoa, along with those of other groups, reflected the deep-rooted tradition and competitive spirit integral to the Carnival.
Yoruba also made waves by securing two second-place awards for their enchanting performance 'Como una flor' and their mythically inspired costume 'Renacer'. Meanwhile, Sur Caliente from Lanzarote clinched third place with both their show 'Fiesta en la Gran Muralla' and their respective costume. The energy of the night was palpable, driven by the enthusiasm of the participants and the audience. "The competition was filled with emotion and spectacle, guided by Ibán Padrón," said local media, highlighting the festive atmosphere.
This year's Carnival has become increasingly significant not only for its entertainment value but also for its role as a cultural touchstone. With deep roots stretching back to the origins of the modern Carnival, the comparsas have long been regarded as one of its core identities. Their stunning displays of choreography and vibrant feathered costumes continue to draw large crowds. The format remains unchanged, yet each year, the creativity and talent displayed seem to surpass the last.
After celebrating their accomplishments, the focus now shifts to the upcoming Drag Queen gala, set for March 7. This popular contest will showcase 15 incredibly talented finalists, pitting them against one another for the coveted crown. The initial phase of selection revealed the remarkable talents among the applicants, sparking excitement not just locally but from viewers across the globe. Contestants include Drag Lemnos, Drag Hefesto, and Drag Eros, among others, each crafting unique performances infused with rich narratives and local culture.
Drag Eros, also known as Aday Betancor Arbelo, shared insights about his upcoming act, expressing his desire to reflect Lanzarote's emotional heritage through his performance. “I want to transmit the idea: after the storm, calm always arrives,” he stated during his preselection. Eros's spectacular showcase will bear witness to the tragic local legend of Aloe and Vera—symbols of love and loss connected to the volcanic history of Lanzarote.
The Carnival atmosphere is undeniably electric, with events structured to encourage public participation. The streets of Las Palmas pulse with life, drawing individuals and families eager to join the joy of this communal celebration. Local authorities, including the Mayor of Agüimes, Óscar Hernández, have urged everyone to enjoy the festivities to the fullest, stating, "It is time for joy and celebration. Let’s put on our costumes and think only of dancing and singing with our biggest smiles.”
Visual spectacles aside, the Carnival serves as more than just entertainment. It is steeped in history and community spirit, showcasing artistic talents and fostering cultural connections among its participants and attendees. The Carnival creates shared experiences, making it one of the most anticipated yearly celebrations, firmly anchored within Canarian tradition.
With such promise and excitement building around each event, the Carnival of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria stands as both tribute to the past and celebration of the vibrant future. Expecting high attendance and participation, organizers and performers alike are poised to make the 2025 Carnival one for the ages. The creativity, hard work, and passion inherent in every performance remind everyone of the rich culture and traditions from these beautiful islands.