I’ve been known to tart up for an oul’ fiesta so think nothing of donning tiaras for tear-ups on the Tenerife carnival.
The Canary Island might not immediately strike you as being Carnival Central.
And most wouldn’t pick it out as the second biggest in the world after Rio.
But once you get under the skin of Tenerife and it has many layers.
You’ll see the island has many, varied and colourful costumes.
I mean where else will you see Jesus kitted out in a skirt on a cross… and not just at carnival?
Float on
Tinerfenos and Tenerifophiles are gearing up for next month’s Carnival.
In truth they have been since the last float was broken down and tiara hung up last year.
As have island specialists Spring Group Hotels.
Which boasts half a dozen beachfront and city-side hotels across Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos.
Just 50 minutes from Santa Cruz.
Reign with my parade
The action gets underway on the Wednesday, February 11 with the Carnival Queen Gala.
After a night of revelry, guests can retreat to the boutique Sir Anthony Hotel.
With its ocean-view rooms and private plunge pools.
The Opening Parade (Cabalgata Anunciadora) is on the Friday.
Guests at Spring Hotel Vulcano can toast the day from the UP! rooftop terrace or unwind by the pool.
And try the pilates, yoga, meditation, and spa treatments.
Super trouper
Ready for Ritmo y Armonía Parade the next day.
Glad you asked… well, it’s high-energy Latin dance troupes along the seafront.
Mediterranean Palace offers children (those who insist on coming along) the Club Mare Kids while you relax by the pool.
Or unwind in the spa and saltwater pool.
After giving worship at your kilted Jesus Mass you’ll be cleansed for the Daytime Carnaval.
The Apoteosis
Guests staying at Spring Hotel Bitácoracan continue the Carnival energy in the south on the UP! rooftop terrace.
A new week and the fun keeps coming on Carnaval Monday.
Wellness is the order of the day at Arona Gran Hotel or if you’re the active type hire a bike to take a spin along the coast.
All to give you energy for Tuesday’s Coso Apoteosis (Grand Parade/Main Parade).
With its fantastic floats, comparsas, music, and fireworks.
Before setting off your day with a rooftop sunset at the Spring Hotel.
Sardines and other fishy tales
Well into the ways of the locals you’ll be exercised by now at what to do with your sardines!
Don’t be… the islanders host the Burial of the Sardine on the Wednesday.
A playful, theatrical farewell blending theatre, satire and tradition.
Back in the south, carry on the party in the Piramide de Arona at the Mare Nostrum Resort (beside Cleopatra Palace).
Then it’s back to your Spring hotel for downtime.
The Festival of Rondallas & Children’s Carnival Parade spans the next two days.
There’s still a weekend to go and we won’t take any flagging now.
Take it all out on Piñata Weekend on the Saturday and Sunday.
While for the more grown up there is the Exhibition and Parade of Vintage Cars.
Take a plunge
Seven nights Half Board at 5* Hotel Sir Anthony departing London Stansted on 11 February 2026.
Superior Double room with Sea View and Private Plunge Pool from £2,305pps with Jet2holidays.
Seven nights B&B at Spring Hotel Vulcano departing London Stansted on 11 February.
Standard room. From £1,113pps* with Jet2holidays.
Seven nights B&B at 5* Mediterranean Palace departing London Stansted on 11 February.
Standard Twin room. From £1,082pps* with Jet2holidays.
Seven nights B&B at 4* Cleopatra Palace Hotel departing London Stansted on 15 February.
Standard Twin room with Pool View. From £1,197pps* with Jet2holidays.
Seven nights B&B at 4* Spring Arona Gran Hotel & Spa, Los Cristianos, Tenerife, departing London Stansted on 11 February.
Twin room with Side Sea View. From £1,122pps* with Jet2holidays.
Seven nights Half Board Plus at Spring Hotel Bitácora, Playa de las Américas, departing London Stansted on 11 February.
Sharing a Standard room. From £1,131pps* with Jet2holidays.
T&Cs
●All prices correct at time of writing and include Jet2holidays’ promotional offer (January payday offer of £100pp off all holidays, plus an extra £100 off per booking).
Prices include 22kg checked baggage per person, 10kg hand luggage per person,
