The Costa del Sol is warming up to host one of the most eagerly awaited popular celebrations of the year: Carnival 2026. Our destination promises to be an explosion of color, music and fun that you won't want to miss with your friends.
In fact, this festivity has become one of the most prominent events in the province, attracting locals and visitors alike.
But when is Carnival 2026?, what activities will be carried out? Read on to discover them and live an unforgettable experience.
When is Carnival 2026 on the Costa del Sol?
Carnival 2026 on the Costa del Sol will be held between February 7 and lasts until Sunday, February 15. During this time, you can enjoy colorful parades, contests, and shows, with a vibrant and festive atmosphere that floods the streets with streamers and costumes.
You can't miss it!
What to do at Carnival 2026 on the Costa del Sol? These are some of the activities
If you have come this far, it is because you want to know the main activities for this Carnival 2026 in the province of Malaga, right? For this reason, without further ado, we show them below.
Malaga city: singing groups and street parties competition
In Malaga city the COAC (Official Singing Group Competition) will be in its preliminary phase from January 23 to 30 at the theater of the Higher School of Dramatic Art (ESAD), the semifinals from February 1 to 4 at the Cervantes Theater. The grand final is scheduled for February 6, also at the Cervantes.
The street celebration of Carnival in Malaga is scheduled to take place from February 7 to 15 and it will be the Plaza de la Constitución that will have the largest number of activities.
Some of the events are: proclamation of the Malaga Carnival 2026, the election of the Gods and Drag Queen Gala, animation parades, children's costume contest, carnival concerts, Battle of Flowers, singing contests, among others.
Finally, on Sunday, February 15, it concludes with the traditional Gran Boqueroná, offering free fried anchovies, and with the Burial of the Boquerón, a parade that begins in the Plaza de la Constitución and culminates on the Malagueta beach with the burning of the "Boquerón" in a bonfire.
Malaga Carnival 2026 is promising!
Torremolinos: its dazzling carnival gala
Torremolinos has also begun its preparations for the season of costumes, wigs, masks and streamers.
The great Drag Queen Gala, in its ninth edition, promises to be one of the most fun and spectacular nights of Carnival 2026. Next Saturday, February 21, the Prince of Asturias Auditorium will be filled with artists, vibrant music and an outpouring of color and originality. A central event that celebrates diversity and LGTBIQ+ pride.
This party, which has already become a long-awaited event for locals and tourists, will offer a unique experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy the fun side of this celebration.
Marbella: an event not to be missed
The city of Marbella also does not go unnoticed in the Carnival season, which this year will be from mid-January with the election of the 2026 carnival poster until mid-February.
They have the Election of Venus and Nymphs on January 23, where they invite all people between 15 and 35 years old to participate by registering before January 19.
The Chirigotas Children's Contest on February 11 and 12 will be one of the most anticipated events, where the little ones will become the great protagonists. In addition, the XXVIII Carnival Groups Contest will take place, which promises a program full of emotion.
Don't miss all the atmosphere of Marbella with traditional parades of floats, costume contests, live music and many other surprises. Fun is guaranteed!
Nerja is transformed: fun and a lot of Carnival!
In Nerja this long-awaited celebration will be from February 12 to 15.
On Thursday the party begins with the official proclamation and the festival of groups. On Friday, costume contests, children's contests are held and, in the afternoon, from 9:00 p.m., the Presentation of the Carnival Momo and the election of the Carnival Nymph. On Saturday afternoon, the Great Carnival Parade takes place, culminating with the awards ceremony in the Plaza de España. On Sunday, the festivities conclude with the emblematic Burial of Chanquete, where attendees dress in mourning, putting the finishing touch.
An unforgettable carnival that you can't miss!
Tolox and its traditional Powder Festival
One of the destinations on the Costa del Sol that highlights a long history of Carnival is Tolox. In fact, its local festival is the "Fiesta de los Polvos", which is celebrated on February 15.
Today, it takes place in the Plaza Alta and the streets of the old town of the town, especially after the performances of murgas, chirigotas, comparsas and costume contests.
It begins at midnight and ends with the Burial of the Sardine on the afternoon of Shrove Tuesday, always before Ash Wednesday. During it, children, men and women share the fun, spreading dust to each other to the rhythm of music and popular carnival dances, such as "la guasa", "los galleones", "la rueda", among others.
This experience deserves a must-see!
Ronda: program of activities for Carnival 2026
During February, Ronda is filled with color and joy with its Carnival.
The Grand Carnival Gala will kick off the celebrations, with the participation of local groups. On Sunday 15, the Plaza de los Descalzos will be the scene of a day of coexistence, where you can taste the traditional migas while the songs of the Ronda groups play.
The Carnival Parade will tour the streets on Saturday, February 21, and the day will culminate with the emotional Burning of the Doll on the Blas Infante promenade.
The Costa del Sol awaits you this Carnival 2026
This Carnival 2026, the Costa del Sol invites you to live unforgettable moments surrounded by great celebrations.
The variety of events ensures that there is something for everyone, from dazzling parades and lively galas to unique activities that ensure unparalleled fun.
Discover the festive joy of our destination and create special memories in good company.
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of Carnival on the Costa del Sol with your friends!
