Málaga Carnival 2024 (3 to 11 February 2024)

Málaga Carnival 2024 is a week-long festival from 3 to 11 February that ends with a giant boquerone being paraded through the city to La Malaqueta beach

By Nick Nutter | Updated 8 Jan 2024 | Málaga | Events | Login to add to YOUR Favourites or Read Later

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Malaga Carnival - Image by My Guide Malaga

What is the Málaga Carnival?

Málaga tends to go over the top with every event; Málaga Carnival is no exception. Preparations for the carnival start with the carnival lights, added to the Christmas lights in Calle Larios, a harlequin is put in place under the Marqués de Larios statue and a giant stage is erected in Plaza de la Constitución.

When is the Málaga Carnival 2024?

Málaga Carnival is a vibrant, multicultural festival that marks the period before Lent. Its spontaneous and colourful nature makes it a standout event in the city, celebrated both in the Historic Centre and various neighbourhoods. Málaga Carnival lasts for two weeks, normally at the end of February beginning of March.

In 2024, the Málaga Carnival will take place from 3rd to 11th February.

What to Expect at Málaga Carnival 2024

Málaga Carnival starts with the selection of the god and goddess of the carnival. You can expect children’s parties, music, dancing, street food in abundance, parades, concerts, a ‘Battle of the Flowers’, and, finally, a boquerone fest in Plaza de la Constitución.

The carnival ends with a giant boquerone being paraded through the city to La Malaqueta beach, where it takes centre place on a huge bonfire. a symbolic end of Carnival and the beginning of Lent.

Málaga Carnival 2024 Key Events & Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of Malaga Carnival 2024:

• Week-Long Celebration: The carnival runs from Sunday to Sunday, leading up to Lent, filled with music and events, including the vibrant Grand Parade following the proclamation and election of the Carnival's God and Goddess.
• Musical Group Meetings: The festivities kick off with performances by singers, murgas, troupes, quartets, and choirs at the Cervantes Theatre, featuring groups from across the province and other Andalucian regions.
• Official Group Competition (COAC): This contest is known for its humour, satire, and social commentary, offering a unique perspective on local, provincial, regional, and national happenings. (This event is ticketed so be sure to buy your tickets in advance if you'd like to attend!)
• Gastronomic Traditions: Local dishes like cabbage, casseroles, rice, and stews play a significant role, highlighting the region's culinary culture during the carnival season.
• Battle of Flowers: The city centre comes alive with musical performances and the Battle of Flowers, showering the streets with confetti and paper.
• Burial of Boquerón: A unique tradition, this event features a parade to the Malagueta beaches, culminating in the burning of an effigy laden with current event references, symbolizing the end of the carnival.

Where to Stay in Malaga

Málaga Carnival is a huge party and a major event in the Malaga calendar. With so many visitors coming to the city for Carnival, it's highly recommended that you book your place to stay early to avoid disappointment!

Here are some hotels to consider:

• Apartamentos Prestige Málaga Suites - These comfortable & modern apartments are great for independent travellers and offer good value for money.
• ICON Malabar - Want a luxurious stay? Check out this gorgeous hotel in the centre of town that promises an unforgettable stay!
• Sol Guadalmar - Relax and unwind at this great beachfront hotel.
• M&D Centro Málaga - Travelling in a group? This one-bedroom apartment is a good option.

For more options, check out our guide on where to stay in Malaga which includes a neighbourhood guide and more hotel recommendations!

Or check out the latest deals in Malaga below.

Booking.com

More on Malaga

While in Malaga for Carnival, be sure to check out the city's main attractions! Read our guide to Malaga for more information on how to plan your visit.

Here are some of the best things to do in Malaga:

• The Gibralfaro and Alcazabar
• Discover Malaga's street art
• Malaga's Roman Theatre
• Malaga Cathedral
• The Port of Malaga
• Picasso Museum in Malaga

Top Activities in Malaga

Looking for fun activities and tours in Malaga? Check out these top experiences! You may also want to check out our guide to the best things to do in Malaga.