Whatever month of the year you choose to visit the marvellous city of Málaga, you’re almost guaranteed a fun-filled stay. But if your trip happens to coincide with one of the city’s many fiestas, you’re in for something extra special.
After Málaga’s famously long Christmas celebrations wrap up on January 6th, locals enjoy a few quiet weeks to recover… before the next big event arrives: Carnaval.
When is Carnaval Málaga 2026?
The dates of Carnaval Málaga change every year, as they depend on when Easter falls. Carnaval is traditionally celebrated in the week before Lent, the 40-day period leading up to Easter.
In Malaga, most of the official celebrations take place over two weekends, although the carnival atmosphere spills into the streets throughout the entire week.
During Carnaval, Málaga’s main shopping street, Calle Larios, is transformed with a spectacular illuminated archway stretching along its full length—adding even more magic to the festivities.
👉 In 2026, the main events of Carnaval Málaga run from Saturday 7th February to Sunday 15th February.
The heart of the celebrations is centred around Plaza de la Constitución and Calle Larios, right in the historic city centre.
The official poster of Carnaval Malaga 2026
WhY DO WE CELEBRATE Carnaval?
The word Carnaval comes from the Latin carne (meat). In Christian tradition, Carnaval marks the final week before Lent—a time when people would traditionally give up certain pleasures of the flesh.
As a result, Carnaval has become synonymous with indulgence, satire, freedom, fancy dress, music and, of course, partying.
Carnaval traditions vary widely across Spain. In the south, the most famous celebrations take place in Cádiz. However, in recent years Málaga has embraced Carnaval with enthusiasm, offering a lively version inspired by its Cádiz neighbour.
Chirigotas: The Heart of Carnaval
One of the most beloved traditions of Carnaval in Málaga (and Cádiz) is the chirigotas—groups of singers who roam the streets performing humorous, satirical songs.
Dressed in matching costumes, these groups perform original songs poking fun at:
- Current politics and politicians
- Social issues
- Spanish family life and work culture
Carnaval is a perfect example of a uniquely Spanish trait: the ability to laugh at ourselves. Even if you don’t understand Spanish, the performances are hugely entertaining thanks to the costumes, expressions and crowd energy.
Traditionally, chirigotas were made up entirely of men, but in recent years more and more female and mixed groups have joined the fun.
💡 Tip: Many Málaga neighbourhoods also host their own local Carnaval celebrations in the weeks leading up to the main event—so you might stumble across a street party without even planning to!
The First Weekend of Carnaval Málaga 2026
Friday 7th February – Opening Night
- 8:00 p.m. | Plaza de la Constitución
The official opening ceremony (Pregón) kicks off Carnaval Málaga.
This is when:- The Carnaval anthem is presented
- The Gods and Goddesses of Carnaval are elected
You’ll also find chirigota performances on stages across the city centre.
Saturday 8th February – Parades & Family Fun
- Midday–2:30 p.m. | Plaza de la Constitución
Children’s Carnaval begins with:- Fancy-dress competitions
- Election of princes and gods
- 5:30 p.m. | Historic Centre
The Grand Carnaval Parade fills the streets with music, costumes and colour.
Follow the sound—you won’t miss it!
Throughout the week there are no official events, but chirigotas take over street corners, bars and plazas, turning the city centre into one big open-air stage.
Thursday 12th February
- 8:00 p.m. | Plaza de la Constitución
The Grand Finale of the chirigotas, where the best groups compete and perform.
🎥 Get a taste of the atmosphere:
The Second Weekend of Carnaval Malaga 2026
Friday 13th February
8:00 p.m. | Plaza de la Constitución
One of Carnaval’s biggest highlights: the Drag Queen Competition.
Expect glamour, humour, drama and plenty of cheering.
Saturday 14th February
12:00 noon | Plaza de la Constitución
Children’s fancy-dress parade and the parade of Gods and Goddesses.
8:00 p.m. | Calle Larios
The famous Battle of the Flowers begins—a joyful chaos of confetti, streamers and laughter.
10:00–11:30 p.m. | Plaza de la Constitución
Live concert by Mr. Proper.
Sunday 15th February – The Grand Finale
- 12:00 noon | Plaza de la Constitución
Don’t miss the Gran Boqueroná—free fried anchovies for everyone- arrive early!
What’s a Boquerón?
The boquerón (anchovy) is one of Málaga’s most iconic symbols. Locals eat anchovies fried or marinated in olive oil, garlic and lemon—and they love them so much that Malagueños are nicknamed “Boquerones”.
If you’re feeling local, you can call yourself one too 😉
Sadly, all good things come to an end- including Carnaval Malaga. And in Malaga we have a very unusual way of bringing the festivities to a close…
The giant boquerón en route to its fiery end!
17:00–20:00 | The Burning of the Boquerón
Carnaval ends in unique Malagueño style with the Burning of the Giant Boquerón.
A colourful parade—with floats, Gods and Goddesses, and even official mourners—escorts the giant anchovy from Plaza de la Constitución, through the port, and finally to La Malagueta Beach.
There, the boquerón is burned in a symbolic farewell to excess and indulgence… just in time to be good for the 40 days of Lent.
🔥 Sadly for the boquerón, he always meets a fiery end!
And with that, another unforgettable week of Carnaval Málaga comes to a close.
Missed Carnaval Malaga?
If you can’t make it in person, check out the official Carnaval Málaga video to get a feel for the atmosphere:
The official video of Carnival Malaga 2024
What’s the Weather Like in Malaga in February?
February in Málaga is pleasantly spring-like:
- Average temperatures: around 16°C
- Highs: up to 20°C
- Sunshine: approx. 10 hours per day
- Sunrise: around 8:00 a.m.
- Sunset: around 7:00 p.m.
It’s wise to pack a light raincoat and something warm for the evenings, although rainfall is limited—and chances are, the Carnaval parades will stay dry.
🎭 As you can see, Málaga is a fantastic destination to visit in February—and Carnaval 2026 promises colour, humour, music and unforgettable memories.
Cycle Málaga Between Carnaval Events
Between Carnaval celebrations in the historic centre, cycling is a great way to see more of Málaga at a relaxed pace. MALAGA BIKE offers recommended bike routes to Rincón de la Victoria, Torremolinos, and the Botanical Gardens, perfect for daytime exploring. If you prefer a guided tour, our MÁLAGA LA BELLA COAST TOUR showcases the city’s coastline and city highlights—an ideal complement to the colour and excitement of Carnaval.
