Tenerife Carnival: 'Latin Rhythms' Day Features Costumes, Rondallas

Today, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival celebrates 'Latin Rhythms' day, showcasing a unique blend of popular costume creativity and the deep musical tradition of its rondallas. This mix highlights the special character of the 'chicharrera' festival, which is known worldwide for combining spontaneous street fun with artistic excellence and respect for cultural heritage.

The morning's events kick off at 11:00 AM at the Tenerife Exhibition Centre with a costume contest. Many people are taking part, showing off their designs in categories for children and adults, including individual, pair, and group entries. María José Cámara will host the event. A panel of design and fashion experts, including Mónica del Cristo Padilla, Sabina Méndez, and Marta Palmero, will judge the costumes and award cash prizes from the city council. Teresa Hernández Quesada and José Antonio Vargas Ruiz will specifically judge the adult category.

Later in the afternoon, at 5:00 PM, the action moves to the Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín for the rondallas competition. This event showcases the most lyrical and traditional side of the Carnival. Eight groups, who preserve the island's musical heritage, will perform both classical and their own choice of songs. They will use only plucked string instruments, highlighting the precision and purity of their music. Zenaido will host this special gala. The musical performances will be judged by experts like Miguel Rodrigo Tamarit, a conducting professor, and Joana Sales Baviera, a doctor of music. Designers Andrés Kyril Acevedo and Paula Hernández will evaluate the groups' staging and overall presentation.