The Sitges Carnival is here! This lively festival, one of the most anticipated on the calendar in Catalonia, attracts crowds of people from all over the world. Don't miss the opportunity to participate!
Sitges, the picturesque coastal town located 30 minutes away from Barcelona, is gearing up for one of its grandest celebrations of the year, the Sitges Carnival. This annual extravaganza will fill the streets of Sitges with music, colour, and joy, solidifying its status as one of the premier events in the province of Barcelona and the whole of Catalonia.
Scheduled this year from February 8th to the 14th, the Sitges Carnival has been celebrated continuously for over four decades, since 1976. However, ancient documents suggest that the carnival dates back to the 15th century. It is considered one of the top ten carnivals in the world, with over 300,000 visitors. The carnival is rooted in pagan revelry and provides a lively break before the solemn season of Christian Lent, inviting participants to indulge in passion and excess.
Festivities kick off with the presentation of the Carnival Queen on February 3rd, followed by the eagerly awaited Late Thursday celebration on February 8th, and concluding with Ash Wednesday on February 14th.
One of the most exciting events of the Sitges Carnival is the famous parades, which take place on February 11th and 13th. The Disbauxa parade and the Extermini parade feature a total of 43 floats and more than 2,200 participants, delighting spectators with their stunning displays and lively performances. The children's parades, which take place at noon on the same days, add an extra touch of charm to the festivities.
The carnival's competitive spirit is evident in the spirited rivalry between participating groups, notably the Sociedad Recreativa el Retiro and the Sociedad Casino Prado Suburense. These longstanding societies, steeped in tradition, vie for supremacy as they showcase their creativity and artistry during the parades.
The culmination of the carnival comes on Ash Wednesday with the solemn burial of His Majesty Carnestoltes, marking the end of the festivities. This symbolic act, accompanied by a funeral procession, serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of revelry and the onset of introspection.
The Sitges Carnival, recognised worldwide for its vibrancy and sensuality, garners extensive media coverage and widespread acclaim. From the bustling parades to the traditional Xatonades feasts, where you can sample the traditional dish ‘Xató’, the carnival offers a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the cultural heritage and community spirit of Sitges. As preparations continue and anticipation mounts, Sitges stands ready to welcome visitors from near and far to join in the joyous celebration of carnival.
For the whole programme, click here.
