Dance schools to kick off Puerto del Rosario Carnival 2026

The Puerto del Rosario City Council held the official presentation of the 2026 Carnival – “Los Musicales” – with the support of the Cabildo. The festivities, dedicated to youth, will kick off on February 6 with a traditional pregón delivered by the Canary Association of Dance Schools (ACED).

Program Overview

The Carnival will run from February 6 to February 22 under the allegory “The World of Musicals.” The program, described as open, participatory, and deeply tied to the municipality’s identity, includes:

• Carrera de Arretrankos (traditional race)
• Regata de Achipencos (boat race)
• Gran Cabalgata (grand parade)
• Carnaval de Día (daytime carnival)
• Various galas, murga contests, neighborhood activities, workshops, and events for all ages

Mayor’s Remarks

“This Carnival is once again a celebration made by everyone, lived on the streets, and reflecting the participatory spirit of our municipality.” – Mayor David de Vera

He emphasized that events such as the Arretrankos, Achipencos, and the Cabalgata are more than program items; they are moments where the community creates, shares, and owns the Carnival. The mayor also highlighted the revival of traditional acts like the Gala of the Queen, Children’s Gala, Grand Dame Gala, and the Island Murga Contest.

Commitment to Carnival Groups

Mayor de Vera added that the current administration has ensured timely payment of subsidies to carnival groups, viewing this as a sign of respect for their year‑round work. He thanked municipal staff, security services, and all participating associations for enabling safe and well‑organized festivities.

Youth Councilor’s Perspective

“Carnival is culture, not just an expense; it’s an opportunity for youth and for the social and cultural dynamism of the island.” – Adargoma Hernández, Youth Councilor of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura

He praised the carnival groups and staff for delivering a high‑level event that benefits the younger generation.

Festivities Councilor’s Comments

“We designed the program listening to the groups and preserving the essence of Puerto del Rosario’s Carnival, reinforcing signature events like the Arretrankos and Achipencos, and aiming for a powerful Day Carnival.” – Tacoremi Gutiérrez, Councilor of Festivities

She noted improvements this year, including new municipal infrastructure, a new municipal tent, and smooth coordination with various institutions. She also highlighted the Tourism Board’s collaboration on the Achipencos, which projects the municipality’s image and has become a major attraction.

Role of the Dance Schools

The ACED will serve as the official carnival announcer. Its secretary, Laura García, thanked the City Council for the trust placed in the association:

“Dance is color, joy, and Carnival. Magic happens when people dance and the streets become a grand stage.”

She expressed pride in being part of such a participatory celebration.

Detailed Carnival Schedule

• Friday, Feb 6 – Traditional sardine birth, pregón by ACED, presentation of adult, children, and Grand Dame candidates, and the carnival’s opening shot.
• Saturday, Feb 7 – Carrera de Arretrankos (unique, participatory race).
• Week of Feb 8‑12 – Activities spread across neighborhoods and villages: children’s workshops, animation, and cultural events.
• Weekend of Feb 13‑14 – Island Children’s Murga Contest, Joseph Fonseca Concert, Island Murga Contest.
• Sunday, Feb 15 – Carnaval de Día and the XXVI Regata de Achipencos.
• Week of Feb 16‑18 – Galas: Adult Gala (Feb 16), Children’s Gala (Feb 17), Grand Dame Gala (Feb 18).
• Friday, Feb 20 – Sambódromo and Noche Joven (Youth Night).
• Saturday, Feb 21 – Gran Cabalgata (grand parade).
• Sunday, Feb 22 – Entierro de la Sardina (burial of the sardine) and the Grand Drag Gala, concluding the festivities.

Acknowledgments

The City Council thanked the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, the Government of the Canary Islands, the Port Authority, Civil Protection, Firefighters, Local Police, State Security Forces, carnival groups, neighborhood associations, local businesses, media, and all residents for their collaboration in making the Carnival a vibrant and safe celebration.