Celebrate Carnival in Madrid
02/01/2022
Carnival in Madrid is one of the most awaited celebrations in the capital. This year the city will be filled with music, dances, costumes and color to welcome spring.
Madrid’s carnival is one of the capital’s most eagerly awaited celebrations, and this year the city will be filled with music, dancing, fancy dress and colour to welcome in the spring.
Madrid will be buzzing with activities all week long, with different events every day to suit all tastes, whilst honouring the popular traditions celebrated in the city’s best-known squares.
What are the most popular activities at the Madrid Carnival?
A wide range of activities are organised in the Spanish capital to celebrate Carnival.
On the first day, Friday 25 February, the popular festival kicks off with a ceremonial address delivered by a well-known local figure. In addition, the famous masked ball takes place at the Círculo de Bellas Artes.
Madrid’s most traditional events take place throughout the week. Firstly, the carnival parade—which starts in Berlin Park and winds its way through much of the city—is not to be missed. Secondly, the city hosts the ‘manteo del Pelele’, a tradition accompanied by live music.
Finally, the carnival celebrations come to an end with the popular ‘burial of the Sardineta’, a light-hearted funeral procession featuring a giant sardine that winds its way along the banks of the River Manzanares to its final resting place, the Fuente de los Pajaritos. Throughout the procession, giant figures, big-headed characters and people in all sorts of fancy dress join in the festivities.
Tips on how to get ready for the best Carnival in Madrid
Madrid Carnival is one of the busiest times of the year in the city, so we recommend booking your stay in advance at The Principal Madrid 5* hotel, situated right on Gran Vía. Thanks to its central location, you won’t miss out on any of the events scheduled for Carnival week.
Also, before attending any event, check the official advice issued by the media. And remember to wear a fancy dress costume if you don’t want to be the centre of attention!
What is the typical food in Madrid?
During Carnival, there are several traditional dishes that have become a local tradition. One of these is the ‘chocolate sardine’ – small buns covered in chocolate and shaped like sardines, presented in a tin to resemble real sardines.
You shouldn’t miss out on the traditional and popular torrijas either – slices of bread soaked in milk, dipped in egg and fried in oil.
Take a break right in the heart of Madrid and enjoy the culinary offerings of Ático restaurant, situated on the top floor of The Principal Madrid hotel and boasting the best views of Gran Vía. A casual dining experience from renowned chef Ramón Freixa that will take you on a journey through Spain’s most distinctive flavours.
We also offer the chance to enjoy our glass-fronted terrace with a delicious dessert or a creative cocktail by award-winning mixologist Manel Vehi, with a view of the Metropolis building.
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