Festivals Around The World Questions Medium
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in Spain is one of the most famous and vibrant festivals in the world. It is celebrated annually and is known for its colorful parades, lively street parties, and extravagant costumes.
The main events and activities during the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife include:
1. Opening Parade: The festival kicks off with a grand opening parade featuring elaborate floats, dancers, and musicians. This parade sets the tone for the entire carnival and attracts thousands of spectators.
2. Carnival Queen Election: One of the highlights of the festival is the election of the Carnival Queen. Contestants compete in extravagant costumes and perform on stage, showcasing their creativity and talent. The winner is crowned as the queen and becomes the face of the carnival.
3. Street Parties: Throughout the carnival, the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife come alive with vibrant street parties. Locals and tourists gather to dance, sing, and celebrate together. The atmosphere is filled with music, laughter, and a sense of joy.
4. Comparsas and Murgas: Comparsas are groups of performers who dress in colorful costumes and dance to traditional music. Murgas, on the other hand, are musical groups that perform satirical songs and sketches. Both comparsas and murgas participate in various competitions during the carnival, adding to the festive spirit.
5. Coso Apoteosis Parade: The Coso Apoteosis Parade is the grand finale of the carnival. It is a massive procession featuring extravagant floats, dancers, and performers. The parade winds through the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, captivating the audience with its vibrant displays and energetic performances.
6. Burial of the Sardine: The carnival concludes with the symbolic burial of the sardine. This event represents the end of the festivities and the beginning of the period of abstinence before Lent. A large sardine-shaped effigy is paraded through the streets and eventually burned, marking the end of the carnival.
Overall, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers a unique and unforgettable experience, combining traditional customs with modern entertainment. It is a celebration of joy, creativity, and community spirit, attracting visitors from all over the world.