Malaga carnival 2027
Key takeaways
When & where: 30 January –7 February 2027 (provisional dates), centered on Plaza de la Constitución.
Festivities: Colourful parades, satirical singing groups, costumes and the Battle of Flowers.
Free & outside: Most events are free and held in public spaces.
Competitions: Includes ticketed shows like the comparsa contests at the Cervantes Theatre and free-to-watch drag queen contests.
Finale: Ends with the Burial of the Anchovy, a symbolic burning on Malagueta Beach.
Every February, the streets of Malaga transform into a riot of sequins, feathers, and colour as thousands gather to celebrate the city’s cheekiest festival. For around 10 days, satirical songs echo off cobbled squares, drag queens compete in gravity-defying heels, locals get seriously creative with wild costumes, and by week’s end, an enormous anchovy meets its fiery fate on the beach. Welcome to Malaga Carnival, the essential thing to do in February, and this year, it’s coming earlier than usual.
(provisional) Malaga Carnival 2027 dates:
Saturday 30 January to Sunday 7 February 2027
If you’re looking to let your hair down by joining in the fun or just like the idea of looking on, read our guide to what’s on in Malaga during carnival. We’ve also included handy FAQs, plus tips on where to buy that essential fancy dress for full Malaga carnival enjoyment!
Signs of Carnival
Preparations start early for Malaga carnival. The special carnival lights go up in Calle Larios Рreplacing the Christmas lights Рand the cheeky harlequin sits in place next to the Marqu̩s de Larios statue.
You’ll also see carnival decorations in Plaza de la Constitución and along the streets leading to the Cervantes Theatre. Shop windows often join in the fun too, with themed displays over the 10-day festival.
Want a sneak-peek?
This video below sums up exactly what Malaga carnival is all about – and gives you the dates of the key events. Turn the volume up and get those feet tapping!
Origins of Carnival in Malaga
Carnival has deep roots in the city, but its modern version dates back to just 1981. That year, Malaga celebrated its first carnival events, with a singing and fancy dress competitions. Since then, it has become of the most important festivals in the city and a must-see if you love fun and letting your hair down!
Find a hotel for Malaga Carnival
Once you’ve booked your flight, you’ll want to find the best place to stay. To help you, we have two great resources:
District by district guide to where to stay in Malaga – we’d recommend the city centre if you want to be at the heart of the action, but our definitive guide gives you the absolute low-down on every single area.
List of best hotels in Malaga – our (long) list includes accommodation that comes tried and tested, either by ourselves or other Guide to Malaga users.
Our top picks for hotels during Malaga Carnival are:
Petit Palace Malaga
Petit Palace is a boutique hotel in the heart of Malaga, combining modern amenities with a charming and intimate atmosphere. It’s great for …
Vincci Posada del Patio
Owned by the Vincci hotel chain, a stay at this 5-star hotel comes with a splash of luxury. The traditional 19th century façade hides a mi …
Atarazanas Boutique Hotel
Handily placed in the centre of town, Atarazanas Boutique Hotel offers a good accommodation option in Malaga. Its rooms are good value and …
Key components of carnival
Like other carnival celebrations in southern Spain, Malaga has several essential parts.
The music and song
Malaga Carnival is best-known for its groups of singers and musicians who perform over the 10 days. The groups compose original music and songs, usually poking fun at politics, sport and current affairs to compete in the annual competition. Almost 60 groups participate in Malaga.
Rehearsals last for months (we know groups who start rehearsing in the summer, some eight months before carnival) and perfection is key to success in the competition. There are three groups of musicians:
Chirigota – usually consisting of 7 to 12 people, this group’s songs tend to be the funniest.
Comparsa – up to 20 people form part of this group.
Murga – at least 20 people sing and play in this group, known for their more lyrical and moving songs.
Note that it’s not easy to understand the lyrics of a carnival song because a) the song is fast and b) it’s often about a current affairs topic you might know nothing about. However, the performances are always fun.
Instruments
Guitars and drums are a must in most groups, but you’ll also see whistles and other percussion instruments. Some groups even have a trumpeter.
Costume
Most groups dress the same or closely follow a similar theme. Outfits are often ridiculous and come with all sorts of accessories.
When to see the singing groups
The best groups perform nightly during the week before the official start of Carnival at the Cervantes Theatre. In a series of heats, they compete for a place in the final, held on the Friday evening.
You can see the groups and other more amateur singers in the city centre streets during carnival week. Top spots to find them include:
- The southern entrance to Calle Larios.
- Plaza del Carbón
- The Tribuna de los Pobres stairs on Calle CarreterÃa.
There isn’t an official timetable, so just follow your ears.
Dios Momo
Momo, the personification of sarcasm in Greek mythology, is the god of carnival. He represents happiness, mockery and freedom, and is usually a fat, jolly man.
Malaga carnival events
Note that the dates for 2027 are provisional.
Events (probably) start on Saturday 30 January and last until the following Sunday, 7 February 2027. Most events happen on Plaza de la Constitución where the action takes place on a giant stage.
Did you know? All the events below are free and unticketed. You do not need tickets for Malaga Carnival held outside.
The video below of Malaga Carnival 2024 shows what to expect.
The dates and times are not confirmed for 2027.
Saturday 30 January
This is the official start of Malaga carnival events with the grand opening at 8pm on Plaza de la Constitución. The jury then selects the carnival Gods (God and Goddess) who will officially represent the carnival during the week.
Sunday 31 January
Children’s fancy dress competition – from noon on Plaza de la Constitución. The Prince and Princess of Carnival are crowned at 1pm.
Official carnival parade – floats accompanied by lots of people in fancy dress make their way through the historic centre. Parade starts from 5.30pm in the Paseo del Parque.
To find the parade, listen out for the loud music and follow your ears!
The search to find the best group of carnival music players (the satirical songs and music are known as comparsas and chirigotas) goes on throughout the historic centre. Concerts take place every early evening from 8pm onwards on the Plaza de la Constitución. You may not understand the words to the songs, but there’s always a fun atmosphere with lots of music and dancing.
Thursday 4 February
Carnival finale – in Plaza de la Constitución at 8pm.
The jury selects the carnival Gods (God and Goddess) who will officially represent the carnival during the week.
Updates on weather over carnival week
It sometimes rains in February and bad weather may mean Carnival events are changed, postponed or cancelled.
We will not be posting updates over the Carnival week.
For last-minute information, we recommend following the official Carnival social media channels – Instagram and Facebook. Or check the local press (Diario Sur, La Opinión de Málaga and Málaga Hoy).
Friday 5 February
Best Copla and Pasodoble – a competition to find the best performance of both in Andalusia from 4 to 8pm in Plaza de la Constitución.
Kids’ painting workshop – from 4 to 6pm in Plaza de la Constitución.
Drag Queen Contest – expect impossibly high platforms, giant wigs and make-up in spades as Malaga drag queens compete for the crown of Queen of Malaga Carnival (top prize money is €2,200, so stakes are high!). Pinkchadora is the DJ this year. From 8pm on Plaza de la Constitución.
Fun fact
Carnival rules state that the platform shoes or boots worn by competing drag queens must be at least 20 cm high. A judge measures the shoes before each contestant goes on stage.
Saturday 6 February
Today is known as fancy dress day.
Kids’ Fancy Dress Competition – from noon on Plaza de la Constitución.
Gods’ and Goddess’ Carnival Parade – from Plaza de la Constitución, along Calle EspecerÃa, Calle Nueva, Calle Puerta del Mar, Calle MartÃnez, up Calle Marqués de Larios back to Plaza de la Constitución. From noon.
Battle of the Flowers – a brightly coloured parade throws confetti and streamers into the crowd before the final shower of thousands of petals. From 8pm in Calle Larios.
Fun fact
During the Carnival Parade and the Battle of Flowers, 1,850kg of confetti and 150kg of flower petals are thrown.
Mr Proper Concert – one of the city’s best known bands provides live music on Plaza de la Constitución from 10 to 11.30pm.
Sunday 7 February
Gran boqueroná
Literally a huge fried anchovy and a culinary highlight during Malaga carnival. Get your free portion of fried anchovies at Plaza de la Constitución from noon.
Not sure how to eat them? Check out our guide.
The burial of the anchovy
Carnival always comes to a tragic end in Spain and Malaga is no exception. Most of Spain buries a sardine to mark the end of festivities and the start of Lent, but Malaga buries an anchovy.
The Entierro del boquerón parade consists of official mourners dressed in widow’s weeds and weeping, and a giant boquerón whose end comes on a huge bonfire on La Malagueta beach. 5-8pm from Plaza de la Constitución throughout Malaga Port, Muelle Uno and to La Malagueta beach.
Best places to buy fancy dress for Malaga carnival
Luis Casquilla (Calle Juan de Padilla 12, off Plaza Uncibay) and Party Land (Paseo de Reding 47, near the bullring) have a great selection of costumes, make-up and accessories for the best Malaga carnival outfits.
If you’re planning on making your own, head for one of the many material shops in Malaga. We like Ribes Casals behind Atarazanas Market but if you’re looking for cheap remnants, try El Kilo in Calle de Liborio GarcÃa, off Calle Nueva.
Malaga Carnival FAQs
General questions
We don’t have official dates yet, but based on Easter being very early in 2027, we expect Malaga Carnival 2027 to run from Saturday 30 January to Sunday 7 February. The festival lasts 9 days with events concentrated from late afternoon through evening.
Absolutely. There are dedicated children’s events, including fancy dress competitions (Sunday, February 8 and Saturday, February 14 at noon). Most events are family-friendly, though late-evening celebrations can get lively. The Sunday afternoon parades are particularly good for families.
Most carnival events are completely free, including street parades, open-air concerts, and the main Plaza de la Constitución performances. However, the formal comparsa competitions at the Cervantes Theatre require tickets, which typically sell out weeks in advance. Book early if you want to attend these indoor shows.
Very, especially during peak events like the Saturday night Battle of Flowers (40,000 people attended in 2025) and the Sunday Burial of the Anchovy. Expect shoulder-to-shoulder crowds along Calle Larios and Plaza de la Constitución. Arrive at least 45 minutes early for good viewing positions at major events.
Practical planning
The historic city centre puts you closest to the action—Plaza de la Constitución, Calle Larios, and surrounding streets host most events. However, hotels here book out months ahead and are priciest. The Soho district and areas near the port (Muelle Uno) offer good alternatives within walking distance.
Book as early as possible—ideally 3-6 months ahead. Hotels in the city centre often sell out by December for the February Carnival. Prices also increase significantly as the event approaches.
Our Guide to Where to Stay in Malaga has area-specific information to help you choose.
February in Malaga is mild but variable. Daytime temperatures range from 15-18°C, dropping to 10-13°C (50-55°F) in the evenings. Rain is possible—February averages 5-6 rainy days: pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes. Evening events can feel chilly, especially if you’re standing still watching parades.
Most events begin at 5pm or 8pm and can run until midnight or later, particularly on weekend nights.
Check our diary above for specific times.
Costumes and joining in
Not obligatory, but highly encouraged! Costumes range from elaborate outfits to simple accessories like masks, wigs, or hats. Locals appreciate tourists who join in the fun. Remember, carnival is about letting your hair down!
Anything goes! Popular choices include historical figures, pop culture characters, animals, professions, and group themes. Satirical political costumes are common among locals. Groups of friends often coordinate matching outfits. Don’t worry about being “correct”—creativity and humour matter more than accuracy.
In 2027, expect takes on political corruption, global warming and other current affairs topics.
Safety and logistics
Generally, yes, but like any major festival with large crowds, pickpocketing can be an issue. Keep an eye on your belongings, and never leave bags unattended. The crowds themselves are good-natured but can be overwhelming – know where the exits are if you feel claustrophobic.
Carnival crowds make navigation difficult, especially on the streets off Calle Larios. Plaza de la Marina, Paseo del Parque and the Alameda Principal are good spots to watch the parades.
Read our guide to staying safe in Malaga
Read our guide to accessible Malaga
Food and drink
The signature dish is pescaÃto frito (fried fish), especially boquerones fritos (fried anchovies). On the final Sunday, the city offers free portions of fried anchovies at Plaza de la Constitución during the “Gran Boqueroná” (from noon). Street food vendors also sell churros, kebabs, crêpes, and burgers.
Drinking alcohol in public is technically illegal in Malaga, and police can fine you, though enforcement during carnival is slightly relaxed. Most locals drink on terraces or inside bars. If you do drink in the street, be discreet and responsible.
Restaurants in the historic centre get extremely busy—book ahead or join the wait queue. For less crowded eating, go to Muelle Uno, Pedregalejo or the western seafront.
See our recommended restaurants
Getting around
Yes, but routes may be diverted during parades. The city’s EMT buses continue running, though some centre-city stops may be temporarily closed during major events. Check the EMT app for real-time updates. Metro lines remain unaffected. Expect buses to be more crowded than usual.
Yes, but expect surge pricing during peak hours (late evening/night) and potential difficulty getting rides immediately after major events when everyone leaves at once. Pre-book where possible or walk to less congested areas to find taxis. Official taxi ranks include Plaza de la Marina, Plaza de la Merced, and near the Cervantes Theatre.
Read our guide to getting around by bus in Malaga
Language and culture
Not essential, but helpful. In tourist areas, many people speak some English, but carnival events are conducted entirely in Spanish. Song lyrics (chirigotas, comparsas) are in Spanish with local slang and political references – even Spanish speakers struggle to understand every nuance. However, the visual spectacle and atmosphere transcend language barriers.
Join in the fun, but be respectful. Don’t push through crowds—people wait patiently for viewing spots. If someone arrives first, they have the spot. Avoid offensive costumes (blackface, cultural appropriation, etc.). Tip street performers if you enjoy them (€1-2).
Yes! Most people love being photographed in costume. However, always ask permission before photographing children or taking close-ups of individuals. During packed events, be mindful of blocking others’ views with phones – there’s nothing worse than watching an event through dozens of screens in front of you!
Weather-related
Outdoor events may be cancelled or changed. The Cervantes Theatre performances continue regardless. Monitor the official Carnival Instagram (@carnavalmlg) and Facebook (Carnaval de Malaga) for updates. Local news sources such as Diario Sur and La Opinión de Malaga report changes.
Layers are key: light jacket or cardigan, waterproof coat or poncho (compact ones sold everywhere), comfortable waterproof shoes (cobblestones get slippery when wet), scarf for chilly evenings, sunglasses and sunscreen (February sun can be strong at midday), umbrella (though difficult in crowds). Avoid heavy winter coats—you’ll be too warm.
Have a backup plan – our wet weather post has lots of ideas.
Carnival is just one of the great annual events in Malaga. For information on the rest, sign up for our free fortnightly newsletter. All you need to know about what’s on and what’s new in the city in your inbox every other Friday.
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