The “Carnaval” in Cadiz, is perhaps one of the most lively and fun. What makes this carnival special are the “Chirigotas” groups of 10, who entertain in the bars and cafes with funny lyrics to their songs. The streets are full of singers on their elaborate floats, singing and playing their guitars, drums etc. Then there are the “Comparsas” groups of 15, that go around the singing and the “Cuartetos” and “Quinietos” who act and sing out with sketches. Although the festivities begin in January, where these groups compete, the finals are on held in the beginning of February.
First is the switching on of the festival lights ceremony
Then there is a reception of those chosen to launch the current years Carnival
Then the Carrousel of Choirs in Puerta Tierra. This is followed by the beginning of the procession that leads into the opening of the ceremonies to proclaim the Carnival Queen.
Then it’s the presentation of prizes for the “Coplas” typical songs
Lastly is the presentation of the “Aguja de Oro” Needle of Gold.
The carnival began around the 16th century when Cadiz was one of the most important ports in all Spain.Due to commerce with different places, in particular Venice, traditions were copied and the carnival became what it is today. The whole city is involved in making this carnival, something worth experiencing.
The Carnivals in Tenerife are as spectacular as any other in the world. There are groups of marching bands, young revelers parade through the streets for 6 days to the music of the tropics etc. The carnivals reach their maximum splendor in Santa Cruz, the capital, and in Puerto de la Cruz. Beautiful girls, elaborate and spectacular costumes, music and a general feel of anything goes all make up this fantastic week of festivities.
Every year a different theme is chosen and the carnival starts off with the election of the Carnival Queen Contest. Like in Cadiz, the bands and murgas (folk singers with funny lyrics in their songs, like the Chirigotas in Cadiz) join in the contests and concerts, which are followed by and conclude in the Grand Parade. The floats, wonderful costumes and singing groups, that make up the Grand Parade, are extraordinary, and although the Parade is actually the highlight of the carnival season, there are more events that follow. Although the festivities begin in Santa Cruz, they spread out to other areas as each town and village celebrates its own fiesta.
To end the festivities, the last ceremony is the “Entierro de la Sardina” (the Burial of the Sardine). This takes place in Guimar, where people dressed in black come out to observe the passing on of the carnival’s spirit. Then at the end of the day there is a huge brilliant firework show!
