parallax background

Sitges Carnival, Spain

El Carnaval de Bermudas ha sido uno de los eventos más recientes y con mayor crecimiento del país.
Bermuda Carnival
El Carnaval de Carolina del Sur es una conmemoración a la cultura caribeña de la ciudad de Columbia
South Carolina Carnival, USA

 

What is the Sitges Carnival?

.
The Sitges Carnival is a historic annual celebration held in Sitges, Spain. The celebration has established itself as one of the most important festivals of this genre in the country. The carnival has been characterized as an unbridled celebration, full of color, music and costumes of all kinds. The celebration begins with Larder Thursday and culminates before Ash Wednesday. Sitges carnival is a great show from start to finish that you definitely can’t miss. Sitges carnival is a great show from start to finish that you definitely can’t miss. Sitges carnival is a great show from start to finish that you definitely can’t miss. Sitges carnival is a great show from start to finish that you definitely can’t miss.

The carnival days are full ofvarious activities, including the arrival and reception of His Majesty Carnestoltes, opening the official carnivals, Carrera de Camas Disfrazadas, Rúa de la Disbauxa, the Rúa de l’Extermini and the Burial of S. M. Carnestoltes. Carnestoltes is a great show from the beginning to the end that you can definitely miss. M. Carnestoltes. The Rúas or desfiles, are also one of the great attractions of the carnivals, taking place throughout the week of celebration.


Sitges is known worldwide for being agay neighborhood and home to a large number of people belonging to the LGBTIQ+ movement, which is why the carnivals also integrate the community and begins a few days before theofficial opening of the festivities. This celebration comprises a large number of activities in the bars and lounges of the municipality, among which stand out the Pink Night, the Night of the Mantillas, the Night of the Tourists, the Night of the Widows and the parade through the streets..

Today, the Sitges carnivals make up acelebration considered the most famous in Catalonia of its kind, attracting some 300,000 people every year to witness the spectacular colorful costumes, events, music, dances and incredible party atmosphere that the town has to offer.

 

The Sitges Carnival is a historical ceremony that encompasses a large number of events, parades and ambient shows

The Sitges Carnival is a historical ceremony that encompasses a large number of events, parades and ambient shows

.

 

When is the Sitges Carnival?

.
The program of the carnival festivities hosts a large number of main and secondary activities that take place during the 6 days of carnival festivities. Sitges carnivals take place from Long Thursday until Shrove Tuesday, one day before Ash Wednesday.

The Sitges carnival will take place approximately from February 11 to 17.

 

 

History of the Sitges Carnivals

.

Nineteenth century

.
Carnivals in Spain have been recorded since the Middle Ages, but have been in constant evolution since the Renaissance. Ethat is, since the 19th century. Many of the carnivals in Spain have acquired a worldwide fame, being the target of thousands of tourists who come every year to witness the iconic Spanish carnivals.

To really know about the Sitges carnivals, we must travel back in time, more or less to the 19th century.The Sitges carnival began to gain much more importance from the 18th century, due to the founding of two organizations in especício; La Societat Recreativa El Retiro in the year 1870 and the Casino Prado Suburense in the late 1970s.



On the one hand, the Societat Recreativa El Retiro was a cultural society that agglomerated the victims of the industrialization of the country, in the early and mid-19th century. On the other hand, the Casino Prado Suburense agglomerated the population that had benefited from industrialization. Both institutions competed against each other, holding an event called “pique”, which is known as the ancient beginnings of the celebration of carnivals. The events were composed of different cultural elements, as well as floats, which at that time were horse-drawn.

 

Twentieth century

.
Like many other carnestolendas festivals in the country, it lost notoriety to the point of almost disappearing completely, this was due to the Spanish Civil War that took place during the years 1936 and 1939. Despite this, the festivities emerged again due to the insistence of different local groups.

Although the festivities have been held specifically since the 19th century, taking place for more than a century, the modern carnivals or more similar to the current festivities, began to take place about 50 years ago. The carnivals of Sitges have become one of the most emblematic celebrations of the town, being one of the flagship carnivals of Catalonia.

 

Where is the Sitges Carnival

?
The carnivals are held in Sitges, a municipality and town of the same name located in Catalonia. Sitges is a coastal town where about 28,000 people reside. It is also one of the most visited gay tourist destinations in Europe.

 

The Sitges carnival troupes take to the streets during the parade

The Sitges carnival troupes take to the streets during the parade

.

 

How the Sitges Carnival is celebrated

?
Carnivals have their official opening on Long Thursday with the arrival of his Majesty Carnestoltes. However, the celebrations, events and activities related to the carnival begin to take place much earlier. Sitges Carnival is characterized by carrying out activities such as conversations and forums with carnival themes, election of the Children’s Carnival Queen, popular Paellas, workshops and gastronomic contests, different LGBTQ+ community events such asdrag queen galas and themed bingos, sports events, children’s activities, Carnival Queen selection and balcony, facade and window contests.

Once the Sitges Carnival has begun, a large number of events take place, among them we can highlight 5.

 

Arribo de sa Majestat Carnestoltes or Arrival of His Majesty Carnestoltes

.
This is theopening event of the carnivals. The event consists of receiving His Majesty Carnestoltes, who is accompanied by the Carnival Queen. During the celebration there is also a small traditional parade that starts in Passeig de la Ribera and ends in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. Once the parade is over, the “predicot” or predicto is read to the spectators. In addition, a large banquet is held.

 

Cursa de Llits Disfressats or Disguised Beds Race

.
This is one of the most traditional events, in which several groups compete against each other. The objective of the event is topush beds or small floats as fast as possible through the streets. The group of people dress according to a particular theme along with their beds and place a person inside it and then descend the streets at high speed.

If you want to know more about tourism in this country I recommend this guide:.

 

Rúa de la Disbauxa

.
It is one of the main events of the carnivals. In it, around 50 floats and thousands of people wearing costumes and disguises walk the streets. This parade is considered one of the largest and most important of the carnival for its ambience, fun, costumes and music. In addition, it is attended by at least 3,000 people. The parade starts at l’Avinguda Sofia and ends at Cap de la Vila. At the end of the parade, big parties are held at the Casino Prado Suburense and at the Societat Recreativa El Retiro.

 

Rúa de l’Extermini

.
The event is divided into two, thechildren’s parade that takes place in the afternoon and the main parade that takes place at night. Both parades are extremely well attended and of great importance. However, the parade that takes place in the afternoon is one of the most outstanding events of the Sitges carnival party due to the large participation. This parade is the last chance to go completely crazy and celebrate in style, as it takes place one day before the closing ceremony.

 

Enterro de S.M. Carnestoltes or Burial of S.M Carnestoltes

.
It is the closing ceremony of the carnival festivities. During the celebration, a procession is held to bid farewell to the King. The event is joined by the Queen of Carnival, mourning the passing, accompanied by a large crowd of widows and people dressed in black..

During the days of Carnival a large number of additional events take place, such ascostume parties, Xatonada Popular, visits to Sitges schools, Brotherhood Lunches, various other parades, dances, concerts, visits to the Municipal Market, Fardo concerts, festivals and dinners. In addition, there are also a good number of LGBTI+ community events such as shows, meals, themed parties in the bars and many other events.

 

Tips for going to the Sitges Carnivals

.

 

If you want to be part of the exciting carnivals of Sitges, we recommend you to plan your trip in advance, make an itinerary of activities and book your preferred accommodation in advance.

Also, don’t forget to bring comfortable clothes and shoes to party in style.

Also, carnivals are your great opportunity to go out and party in the streets of Sitges and meet a lot of people. You can go out in your best costume to the clubs or bars and have a great time. Also, don’t forget to take part in the traditional Xatonades, one of the typical dishes of the area, and also have several workshops and activities around it.

Some carnival events require an entrance fee, so we advise you to check the program of the event in advance to know the price of the same.

 

Events in Sitges Carnival

.

Official pre-carnival celebrations

.
Before the official festivities, a large number of events take place, some of which may be mentioned are: Conversa Disfressada at the Sala de actos Societat Recreativa El Retiro, the coronation of the Reina del Carnaval Junior Edition at the Teatro Casino Prado, the Arrossada Popular at the Societat Recreativa El Retiro, Xato workshops at the Sala de Actos Societat Recreativa el Retiro, children’s activities, announcement of the Carnival Reinal at La Fragata, different bingo events, Xato contests, Xatonada Popular, themed parties and Balconies, facades and windows contests.

In relation to ambient events and activities, themed events are held in the different restaurants such as La Pícara and Gala de Drag Quen at La Fragata. In addition, parties are held in bars with different themes such as La Turista at La Locacola, Mantillas at El Comodín, carnival opening parties and different events.

 

Official carnival celebrations

.
The celebrations officially begin with the Arrival of sa Majestat Carnestoltes at approximately 19:20 at La Fragata, then a small parade takes place starting at Paseo de la Ribera and ending at Plaza de l’Ajuntament. The speech takes place at 20:20 at La Fragata. The day ends with a large number of evening events such as Xatonada amb Carrusel at Casino Prado, Xatonada Popular at Palau del Rei Moro and Xatonada amb Ball at the Salón Teatro Societat Recreativa El Retiro..

After this, there are different tours of theSitges schools by Her Majesty and the Carnival Queen. Some of the schools are Instituto Joan Ramon Benaprès, La Moixiganga, Escola Agnès and Instituto Vinyet. In addition, there is El Almuerzo de la Hermandad in Plaza Catalunya, Rúa d’Antes that starts at Cap de la Vila and ends at La Fragata, some concerts and parties and ambient themed events.

 

 

Last 5 days

.
Next, the Visit to the Municipal Market takes place to then carry out the Cursa de Llits Disfressats that will take place from 10:30 to 12:00, occupying the streets from Francesc Gumá to La Fragata. Then, the Popular Welcome Lunch, Fardo Concert, the Tequereque Festival, music festivals and Xatonada at the Casino Prado Theater take place.

Then, the Children’s Parade or Children’s Rua takes place at noon, taking place from Avenida Sofia to Cap de la Vila. Likewise, the Rúa de la Disbauxa takes place at 19:30 which starts at Avinguda Sofia and ends at Cap de la Vila. Then parties are held in the function rooms of the Sociedad Recreativa el Retiro, the party at the Casino Prado and a dinner at the Hotel Calipolis.

In addition, the Quitxala Fest at La Fragata, Snack Carnival and Dances are held. Then, the Children’s Rua takes place from Avinguda Sofia to Cap de la Vila, followed by the Rua de l’Extermini on Avinguda Sofia to Cap de la Vila. The day ends with a carnival party at the Sociedad Recreativa el Retiro and the Fiesta Extermini at the Casino Prado. In addition, some environmental events are held, such as the Pink Night at Locacola.

Finally, the Vermut dels Vius at Hort de Can Falç, Cafè, Copa i Puro at the Cantinda d’El Retiro, Formació del dol a sa Majestat Carnestoltes at the Soietat Recreativa El Retiro and finally the Burial of S.M Carnestoltes with its parade from the town hall to the Plata de la Fragata. In addition, on Cinder Wednesday is commemorated thearrival of Mrs. Lent and a retreat dinner.

 

La Cursa de Llits Disfressats is one of the most popular events of the Sitges Carnival

La Cursa de Llits Disfressats is one of the most popular events of the Sitges Carnival

.

 

Sitges Carnival Parades

.
The parades with the greatest strength and the largest number of people are the Desfiles de Disbauxa and the del l’Extermini which comprise a large number of costumes, floats, music and a great atmosphere of celebration and festivities.

Also, parades are held in with the arrival of his Majesty Carnestoltes, the Burial of S.M Carnestoltes, Rua d’Antes and the arrival of Mrs. Lent..

 

Parade route

 

The Sitges carnival comprises a long number of events and parades

The Sitges carnival comprises a long number of events and parades

.

 

In the case of the Rúa de la Disbauxa and Rúa de l’Extermini, it starts at l’Avinguda Sofia, passes along Passeig de la Ribera, then reachesLa Fragata, the Passeig de la Ribera and Bassa Rodona..

For the parade ofRúa d’Antes, it runs from Cap de la Vila, passing through Parellades, then Bonaire and Passeig de la Ribera ending at La Fragata where other events are held.

For the Enterro de S.M Carnestoltes, it starts at the town hall and ends at La Fragta beach. The route crosses Cap de la Vila, then Parellades, following Bonaire i Passeig de la Riber and ending at monument del Greco..

Finally, with the arrival of Mrs. Lent, there is a route that begins at Passeig de la Ribera, then passes through Bonaire, following Parellades ending at Cap de la Vila..

 

Paella is one of Spain's traditional dishes

Paella is one of Spain’s traditional dishes

.

 

Travel Insurance

 

From Carnavalesdelmundo.org we recommend to hire a good insurance to visit this carnival and to know the rest of the country. For being our readers we offer a 5% discount on all IATI insurance. Read more information about all insurance offers here:

 

 

What to eat at the Sitges Carnival

?
One of the dishes that you can not miss for anything in the world is the xató, a sauce that is made with almonds, toasted hazelnuts, bread crumbs, vinegar, oil, garlic and salt to then make a salad with endive, anchovies, tuna and cod. It is one of the most regularly served meals during carnivals.

In addition, you can try the paella, one of Spain’s signature dishes. This is made with rice, chicken, rabbit, vegetables and saffron. Similarly, the carnivals celebrate different community meals in which the dish is always present.

Also, the town offers a large number of places where you can go out to eat. Some of these are: Restaurant Sitges Bon Estar, Komokieras and Merci Sitges which serve a varied menu, mainly Mediterranean, Spanish and European food.

 

Xató is one of the typical dishes of Catalonia

Xató is one of the typical dishes of Catalonia

.

 

What to see and do during the Sitges Carnival

?
Once you are inside the carnival, you have dozens of activities in which you can participate. You can go to the different parties, dances and activities that take place in different parts of Sitges. In addition, you can participate in the workshops, discussions or community lunches. Finally, you have several events to attend in the ambient program, consisting of theme parties in bars or Drag Queen shows..

Likewise, you can’t miss themain events comprisingthe arrival of His Majesty, the costumed beds, the Disbauxa and l’Extermini parades and finally theclosing ceremony with the King’s Burial.

If you don’t want to complicate things, here you can book interesting excursions in Spanish in this city:.

Guided tours in Spanish around the world

 

What to see and do outside the Sitges Carnivals

.
Some of the attractions in Sitges are:

Cau Ferrat Museum

.
It is a biographical museum located on the property of the painter Santiago Rusiñol, one of the artistic figures of Catalonia. The museum was created in 1933 and the collection includes paintings, drawings, iron pieces, glass pieces, ceramics and furniture.

 

Sitges Beach

.
It is one of the busiest beaches in Sitges. The waters are fresh and clean surroundings. The beach is close to the old town and has some food and drink stores nearby.

 

Passeig Maritim

.
It is a promenade of about 8 kilometers along the seashore. Along the route you can find several historical monuments and food and drink places. During sunset you have the most beautiful ocean view.

Also if you want to visit museums and important buildings in this city we recommend that you book your ticket in advance through Tiquets: .

Book tickets in the city you are visiting

 

Safety at the Sitges Carnival

.

 

Sitges is a quiet and safe town, like many other areas in Spain and Europe. We recommend you to implement basic safety measures, especially if you go to places with a large concentration of people.

Remember to keep your belongings and documentation in a safe place to avoid losing them. Also, we recommend the following products to keep your items safe:

 

 

Weather at the Carnival of Sitges

 

During the Sitges Carnival celebrations, the weather can get a bit chilly, with temperatures ranging from 4 to 15 degrees Celsius. If you are a chilly person, we recommend packing something warm.

 

During the Sitges carnival parades you can see colorful and colorful costumes

During the Sitges carnival parades you can see colorful and colorful costumes

.

 

How to get to the Sitges Carnival

.

How to get there by plane

.
The closest airport to Sitges is Airport Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat which receives a large number of national and international flights. Once here, you can use the different means of transport to get to Sitges.

We recommend buying airline tickets through Kiwi.com or Skyscanner where they are usually cheaper. More information on this link to review Kiwi.com..

 

How to get there by train

.
From the airport you can take the L9S subway line to El Prat station. Once there, transfer and take a train from El Prat de Llobregat Station to Sitges on the R2S or R2 lines.

In Torredembarra you can take a train on the RE line to Sitges, passing through Villanueva y Geltru..

From Barcelona you can take a direct train to Sitges using Renfe Cercanías on line R2S.

In Madrid you can take a train from Pueta de Atocha to Sitges via Barcelona Sants Station on the AVE and R2S lines respectively.

 

How to get there by bus

.
From the airport you can take a direct bus to Sitges with the company Empresa Plana.

From Torredembarra you can take a bus on line L080, passing through El Vendrell until you reach Sitges.

From Barcelona you can take a direct bus to Sitges through Empresa Plana.

From Madrid you can take a bus until you reach Barcelona on line 252. Then transfer at Estación Sants until you reach Sitges, using lines CJ, N0, 109 or 115.

 

How to get there by car

.
From the airport you can take the C-32 road.

In Torredembarra you can take the C-32 until you reach Sitges.

From Barcelona you can take the C-32 to Sitges.

In Madrid you can take the A-2 and AP-2 to Sitges..

 

Where to stay in Sitges Carnival

.



Booking.com

 

Melia Sitges

.
4 star hotel 1.4 km from the center of Sitges. The rooms have air conditioning and satellite TV. The hotel offers 2 swimming pools, bar, gym, parking and free wifi.

 

Hotel Subur

.
3 star hotel 250 meters from the center of Sitges. Rooms feature balcony with sea view, private bathroom and safe. Facilities offer bar, restaurant, beach entrance and free wifi.

 

Hotel Subur Maritim

.
4 star hotel 1.4 km from the center of Sitges. Rooms have satellite TV, private bathroom with hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities. The hotel has a swimming pool, bar, beach entrance, parking and free wifi.

We recommend you use Booking.com to book hotels at a good price, check more information here:.

 


Booking.com

 

Thanks for reading

.

If you liked this article and found it useful share it on your social networks or collaborate by inviting us for a coffee at Paypal so we can continue creating useful content. Click here to collaborate: