Alicante Carnival
Carnival is one of the most beloved and vibrant celebrations in Alicante, where music, costumes, and festive spirit take over the city. The most prominent event takes place on the famous Saturday night of “Sabado Ramblero,” which transforms Rambla Mendez Nuñez into a spectacular display of color and joy, with thousands of people of all ages joining in the dancing and fun.
The streets of Alicante’s old town also shine in the days leading up to Sabado Ramblero with Dijous de Gras and Viernes de Pregon. The traditional Entierro de la Sardina and Domingo de Piñata mark the end of a week full of events for all ages.
Sabado Ramblero
It gets its name from the Rambla Mendez Nuñez, one of the most emblematic avenues in the city, which transforms into a spectacle of color, music, and costumes. Here, thousands of costumed people of all ages join the celebration. On a night like this, fun is guaranteed.
Dijous de Gras and Correfoc
Jueves de Larderos (Fat Thursday) takes place on the Thursday before Sabado Ramblero, the streets of the city downtown come alive with festivities, including Correfoc, the Ball de Diables, and the Arribada del Momo. The route traditionally includes Plaza 25 de Mayo, Calle Calderon de la Barca, and Plaza San Cristobal, among other streets in the historic center.
Viernes de Pregon
After Dijous de Gras comes Viernes de Pregon (Carnival Friday) in Plaza del Carmen, which officially kicks off the Carnival: an invitation to the entire city and its visitors to join the festivities.
Martes de Carnaval (Carnival Tuesday)
“Juicio y Procesion de Pelele” takes place on the Tuesday following the Sabado Ramblero, in a parade full of tradition that runs through the old town.
Entierro de la Sardina
Wednesday night, the Carnival bids farewell with the famous Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine), a theatrical and fun event in which the spirit of the festival is bid farewell until the following year. The funeral procession goes through the city and culminates with the burning of the sardine in Plaza del Carmen.
Domingo de Piñata
The little ones are the protagonists of Domingo de Piñata (Piñata Sunday), with activities, games, and contests that put closure on Carnival week. •Date: Variable date between February and March •Where: In the heart of Alicante, especially on Rambla Mendez Nuñez and surroundings •Must-have: Costume and desire to have a good time!
