The vibrant celebration of the Cádiz Carnival reached its pinnacle early on March 1, 2025, with the exciting announcement of the winners of the Concurso Oficial de Agrupaciones Carnavalescas (COAC) 2025 at the Gran Teatro Falla. The event showcased the best of local talent, culminating in more than 10 hours of performances and spirited competition.
Chirigota Comparsa Los Calaíta (fuimos a por tabaco) won the first prize in the chirigota category with an impressive score of 772.46 points. This performance is celebrated for its humorous and relatable themes, capturing the hearts of the audience throughout the competition. Following closely were Los Butaneros and Los James Bond que da gloria verlos, who received second and third place, with 769.69 and 769.17 points, respectively. Each chirigota brought its unique flair, making this year's performances particularly memorable.
Meanwhile, in the coros category, El Gallinero emerged victorious, achieving 749.60 points, as reported by Radio Cádiz. The competing groups provided captivating renditions filled with tradition, highlighting the rich musical heritage of the region. Cádiz: El Show finished second with 746.03 points, followed by Las Entrañas de Cádiz, which secured the third spot with 742.65 points.
Las Ratas took home the first prize for comparsas, demonstrating the creativity and depth of local artists. With 769.98 points, this newly formed group left spectators mesmerized with their performance. Following them were El Cementerio and Los del Otro Barrio, who gained praise for their artistic approaches.
Finally, the cuarteto category was led by Ku Klux Klan Klan, which captivated the audience with both humor and artistry, landing them 758.30 points. Their performance was followed by Un Clásico Nunca Falla, which, with its charming delivery, secured second place.
The event was presided over by Anabel Balboa, whose leadership ensured the integrity of the competition. "The competition showcases decades of tradition and talent among participants," she stated, emphasizing the cultural significance of this annual celebration.
The COAC 2025 featured 134 groups participating, making it the longest preliminary phase ever conducted, lasting from January 23 to February 13. The final showdown brought together 14 groups, each vying for the chance to win not only prestige but also substantial monetary prizes. The excitement brewing throughout the event highlighted the intense dedication these performers share for their craft and the Carnival's legacy.
Participants receive financial rewards ranging from 500 euros for simple participation to 25,000 euros for winning the top prize, which varies by category. Such incentives add to the competitive spirit of the Carnival.
With the final announcements completed at 6:32 AM, anticipation now turns to the streets of Cádiz, where festivities will continue to thrive. The local community is already buzzing about the upcoming street performances, beginning later today with the pregón (opening speech) of the Carnival at Plaza de San Antonio, featuring local artist 'Antoñito' Molina.
This year's Carnaval de Cádiz has not only been about competition; it has also brought together the community and visitors, creating lasting bonds through enjoyment and shared experiences. Many locals took to social media to express their amazement at the vibrant atmosphere and the unique performances witnessed over the event's course.
Interestingly, the event this year saw the return of influential figures, including Spain's Minister of Culture, reflecting on the Carnival's significance on both regional and national stages.
Cádiz Carnival is not merely an event; it's the heart and soul of the community, celebrating the rich traditions, humor, and resilience of its people. With the successful conclusion of COAC 2025, eyes are now on the upcoming events, promising to bring more joy and camaraderie to Cádiz's streets.