🎭 Carnaval in Madrid 2026: A Guide to the City's Most Unique Celebration

If you happen to be in Madrid between February 14th and 18th, 2026, you are in for a treat. While cities like Rio or Venice are famous for their scales, Madrid offers a "Carnavales" experience that blends local wit, historical art, and a very peculiar obsession with a fish.

Whether you are a local or just visiting, here is everything you need to know about celebrating Carnaval in Madrid.

📍 Where is the Party?

In recent years, the heart of the celebration has moved to Matadero Madrid (a stunning former slaughterhouse turned cultural center) and the scenic Madrid Río park.

🗓️ Key Dates & Events for 2026

• Saturday, February 14th: The Big Kick-off The fun starts at Matadero with workshops, circus acts, and magic. Don't miss the Grand Carnival Parade (1:00 PM – 3:00 PM) followed by a massive party from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

• Sunday, February 15th: Tradition & Satire Head to the Explanada Negra in Madrid Río. You’ll witness the Manteo del Pelele (tossing a rag doll in a blanket), a tradition famously painted by Francisco de Goya. Later, enjoy the Murgas and Chirigotas—musical groups that perform satirical songs about current politics and social issues. Even if you don't speak perfect Spanish, the energy is infectious!

• Wednesday, February 18th: The Grand Finale The famous Burial of the Sardine (El Entierro de la Sardina).

🐟 Why do they bury a Sardine? (The "Entierro de la Sardina")

This is the question every foreigner asks! The Burial of the Sardine is the official end of Carnival and the beginning of Lent (Cuaresma).

The Meaning: It symbolizes burying the past, social vices, and the wild partying of Carnival to enter a period of reflection and fasting. The Ritual: A group of "mourners" (the Alegre Cofradía) dressed in black capes and top hats parades a small coffin containing a sardine through the streets.

1. Morning: They walk through Madrid de los Austrias to Plaza Mayor.

2. Afternoon: They end at the Casa de Campo, where the sardine is literally buried at the Fuente del Pajarito. It sounds somber, but it’s actually quite festive and theatrical!

🍪 Don't Miss: The "Sardine Route" (Gastronomy)

You can’t leave Madrid without trying the Sardina de Carnaval.

• Sweet Sardines: Local bakeries create chocolate or pastry sardines that are delicious.

• Savory Sardines: Many restaurants and markets offer innovative tapas featuring the humble fish.

💡 Quick Tips for Travelers

• Costumes: Wear one! Madrileños love a good "disfraz."

• Location: Most events are near the Manzanares River (Madrid Río), which is great for a walk.

• Art Connection: Visit the Prado Museum before or after to see Goya’s paintings—you’ll recognize the scenes of the festival in real life!

Ready to experience the most authentic side of Madrid? Grab a mask, find a chocolate sardine, and join the parade!