Malaga Carnival 2026: when the city dresses up in joy

Every winter, before the arrival of Lent, Malaga is transformed. The Carnival is one of the most beloved celebrations among locals and one of the most authentic for those visiting the city. In 2026, the Malaga Carnival is officially celebrated from 7 to 15 February, filling the streets with music, humour and costumes, and turning the historic centre into a huge open-air stage.

It is not a festival to be watched from afar: the Malaga Carnival is lived on the streets, shared and enjoyed naturally, blending tradition and creativity in a warm and distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere.

The start of the Carnival and the spirit of the streets

The official opening takes place on 7 February with the traditional proclamation in Plaza de la Constitución, one of the most symbolic moments of the festival. That same evening, God Momo and the Carnival Goddess are introduced, figures representing the irreverent, joyful and satirical tone that defines the entire celebration. From that moment on, the historic centre begins to fill with improvised costumes, live music and a festive atmosphere that lasts throughout the week. Carnival in Malaga is not limited to a specific venue: the squares and streets become the true stage.

The Grand Parade and the busiest days

One of the most eagerly awaited moments arrives on 8 February with the Grand Carnival Parade, which makes its way through the main streets of the centre. Floats, comparsas, murgas and groups of friends in costume fill the city with colour and music, creating a participatory atmosphere where locals and visitors mingle freely. During these days, the Carnival is also celebrated intensely in different neighbourhoods of the city, where performances, costume contests and family activities are organised, keeping the celebration alive beyond the historic centre.

Creativity, spectacle and tradition

On 13 February, the Drag Queen Gala becomes one of the most eye-catching events on the programme. It is a night defined by creativity, spectacle and freedom of expression, reflecting Malaga’s open and diverse character.

One day later, on 14 February, the city experiences one of the most emblematic moments of the Carnival with the Battle of the Flowers on Calle Larios. Thousands of petals and confetti fill the air in a joyful and visually spectacular day which, coinciding with Valentine’s Day, adds a special touch to the celebration.

The Burial of the Boquerón and the Carnival farewell

The Carnival comes to an end on 15 February with the traditional Burial of the Boquerón, a festive and humorous ceremony symbolising the end of the celebrations. The procession makes its way through the city to La Malagueta beach, where the burning of the giant boquerón takes place, one of Malaga’s most recognisable symbols. This event, full of irony and tradition, brings the final curtain down on a week in which the city has experienced the streets in a different, open and celebratory way.

The Malaga Carnival 2026, from 7 to 15 February, is much more than a series of events: it is an expression of the Malagueño character—warm, creative and joyful. A perfect opportunity to enjoy the city in winter, discover its traditions and experience Malaga from the inside, just before the high season begins. And if you are looking for somewhere to stay, don’t hesitate—it’s in Fuengirola with us.

The GR Estates team – The best experiences on the Costa del Sol 

Estate agents in Fuengirola and on the Costa del Sol.
www.gr-estates.com