Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival Prioritizes Tradition and Community in €8.5 Million Revamp
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is prioritizing community support and historical tradition with an 8.5 million euro budget and a revised 2027 schedule designed to optimize logistics and visitor attendance.
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is shifting its focus this year. Rather than experimenting with new formats, organizers are prioritizing the people who make the festival what it is: the groups, designers, and participants. According to Festivals Councilor Javier Caraballero, the goal is to celebrate the event’s identity and strengthen the community behind it.
The city is dedicating a total budget of 8.5 million euros to the upcoming carnival. Of this, 7.5 million comes directly from the City Council, while the rest is covered by sponsorships and fees. To support the carnival groups, the council is increasing their subsidies by 10%, while keeping gala costs capped at roughly 500,000 euros.
This year’s programming will look back at the festival’s history, celebrating key milestones like the 40th anniversary of its themed stage designs. Artistic director Enrique Camacho is returning to the 2023 stage layout, which proved successful for the 7,000 spectators expected to attend.
Financially, the festival remains a major driver for the city, generating an estimated 40 million euros in economic impact. Councilor Caraballero is pushing for more support from the Canary Islands government, noting that the Cabildo of Tenerife has already committed 300,000 euros. He remains firm that the carnival must stay in the city center to maintain its authentic character.
The 2027 calendar will also see a change: the festival dates have been moved away from the traditional Lenten schedule. The opening gala is set for January 22, with the Queen’s election on February 17. This change is designed to improve logistics and avoid overlapping with other major events, such as the "Indianos" in La Palma, making it easier for visitors to enjoy both celebrations.
Looking ahead, the festival team remains committed to keeping the public involved in the Queen’s election, supporting the Inclusive Carnival, and ensuring that younger generations stay connected to these local traditions.