Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival

The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has roots that date back to the first European settlements, although the earliest written references date to the late 18th century.

In 1778, the diary of Lope Antonio de la Guerra y Peña mentions a dance where comparsas were already talked about.

In 1783, the use of masks was prohibited, reflecting the tension between the upper bourgeoisie and the people.

At the end of the 19th century, the Carnival began to organize with the emergence of groups such as the rondalla in 1891 and the founding of the Orfeón de Santa Cruz in 1897.

During the dictatorships of Miguel Primo de Rivera and Francisco Franco, the Carnival was renamed “Winter Festivals” to evade prohibitions. However, the celebration continued, with Santa Cruz de Tenerife being one of the few places where this tradition remained alive, along with Cádiz and Isla Cristina.

In 1954, the first murga emerged, initially known as Los Bigotudos and now called Afilarmónica NiFú-NiFá.

With the end of the dictatorship in 1976, the name “Carnival” was officially restored, although the festivity had never stopped being celebrated.

Since 1962, an annual poster for the Carnival has been created, designed by recognized artists.

In 1987, a theme was introduced into the event, and a concert by Celia Cruz became a milestone, registering the highest attendance at an outdoor concert.

The main Carnival locations have changed over time, hosting events at the Guimerá Theatre, the Bullring, and the Tenerife International Trade Fair and Congress Center.

Currently, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife seeks to be recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, making it the first carnival in Spain to receive such distinction.

Carnival Groups

You should know that in the Tenerife Carnival, each carnival group has its own style and personality.

What is a Carnival Group? A carnival group is exactly what it sounds like. They are a group of people who collaborate with each other to create costumes, choreographies, music, and ideas that parade together in the carnival.

What are Murgas? The “murgas” are a type of Spanish carnival group known for their satirical performances where they sing about current events happening in the world.

What are Rondallas? The “rondallas” are another type of carnival group that is composed exclusively of string instruments such as bandurrias, guitars, octavinas, and lutes.