We know that many of you are traveling this weekend (don’t forget to take awesome pictures for the AU Madrid Photo Contest!). But if you’re staying in Madrid, this information may be useful:
Every year, Madrid celebrates Carnivals with a full program of free, themed activities for all ages. In recent years, the main hub for the festivities has been Matadero Madrid and Madrid Río Park. Take note: the 2026 celebrations will take place from 14 to 18 February!
Carnivals do not have a fixed date of celebration. As with Holy Week, Carnival is celebrated according to the lunar calendar, which means that the days change from one year to the next. Specifically, Carnival is set 40 days before Holy Thursday, which this year is Thursday April 2.
Madrid Carnivals may not be as spectacular as the Carnivals in Venice, Rio de Janeiro or even Cádiz in Andalucía and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands, but there are still plenty of interesting things to do during these days.
- Grand Parade (Feb 14): A large parade with floats and bands from 1 pm to 3 pm, running from Puente de Toledo to the Explanada Negra.
- Events at Matadero Madrid: Expect the official opening speech, concerts, DJ sessions and children’s workshops.
- Traditional Events: Manteo del Pelele (Tossing a dummy) and the Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine) on Ash Wednesday, which marks the end of the festivities.
- Activities: The celebration includes murgas and chirigotas (satirical musical groups) and, in recent years, a festive, themed and inclusive atmosphere.
- Atmosphere: While less intense than in other Spanish cities, Madrid’s Carnival is known for its costumes, street parties and, of course, the traditional Burial of the Sardine. What is that? It’s a tradition depicted by Goya in one of his paintings. Costumes are put away, the fanfares fall silent, and the sardine is buried with honors to mark the end of the celebrations and the beginning of Lent. The satirical funeral procession usually starts at Plaza de San Antonio de la Florida. Later, the sardine is traditionally buried at the Pajarito Fountain in Plaza de las Moreras in Casa de Campo Park. An impressive bonfire closes the ceremony, symbolically driving away evil and negative thoughts, with the ashes representing happiness, peace and harmony.
