Carnival in Madrid is one of the most awaited celebrations in the capital. This year the city will be filled with music, dances, costumes and color to welcome spring.
Madrid will be full of activities throughout the week, each day with different events for all tastes, always respecting the popular traditions that are celebrated in the most famous streets of the city.
What are the most popular activities of the Madrid Carnival?
In the Spanish capital a great number of activities are organized to celebrate Carnival.
On the first day, Friday February 25, the popular festival is inaugurated with the reading of the proclamation by a personality in the city. In addition, the well-known masked dance takes place at the Círculo de Bellas Artes.
During the whole week the most traditional events of Madrid are celebrated. On the one hand, you cannot miss the carnival parade that starts in the Berlin Park and runs through much of the city. On the other hand, the city hosts the manteo del Pelele, a tradition with live music.
Finally, the carnivals end with the popular Burial of the Sardine, which is a fun funeral procession of a sardine that runs along the banks of the Manzanares to the place of burial, the Fuente de los Pajaritos. Throughout its route, giants, big-heads and costumes of all kinds accompany the celebration.
Tips to prepare to live the best Carnival in Madrid
The Madrid Carnival is one of the busiest dates of the year in the city, so we recommend you to book your accommodation in advance at The Principal Madrid 5* hotel, located in the heart of Gran Vía. Thanks to its central location, you will not miss any activity scheduled for Carnival week.
Also, before attending any event, check the official recommendations issued by the media. And remember to dress up if you don't want to be the center of attention!
What is the typical food in Madrid?
During Carnival, there are several popular foods that have become a local tradition. One of them is the chocolate sardine, chocolate-covered rolls in the shape of a sardine presented in a can simulating real sardines.
Nor can you miss the traditional and popular torrijas, slices of bread soaked in milk, dipped in egg batter and fried in oil.
Take a break in the heart of Madrid and enjoy the gastronomic proposal of the Ático restaurant, located on the top floor of the hotel The Principal Madrid and with the best views of the Gran Vía. A casual proposal of the renowned chef Ramón Freixa that will take you through the most characteristic flavors of Spain.
We also offer the possibility of enjoying our terrace with a good dessert or a creative cocktail by the award-winning mixologist Manel Vehi in front of the Metropolis building.
