Carnaval 2024
By Charlotte Stace
Since Roman times, Carnaval marks the time just before Lent starts where people, if they desire, can enjoy one last chance to eat, drink and be merry, before their 40 days of fasting begin. Over the years, this has developed into one big festivity known around the world as Carnival (Carnaval in Spanish).
So what can you expect from Carnaval in Barcelona? The celebrations kick off on ‘Fat’ Thursday with 30 activities centred on food including coca de llardons tastings and omelette contests (your last chance to indulge before fasting begins). Then across the weekend, there’ll be a series of carnaval parades through the city's neighbourhoods, as well as concerts, costume contests, exhibitions, masked dances and dress-up workshops. Events continue until Ash Wednesday, which sees the ‘burial’ of the Carnival Queen.
One of the most exciting events on Barcelona’s calendar, this is one experience you should definitely not miss out on.