Vibrant parades, spectacular costumes and a unique tradition. Discover in this post everything you need to know about the Sitges Carnival 2026 and enjoy a few unforgettable days.

What is the Sitges Carnival and what is its origin?

Known as “Carnestoltes” in Catalan, the Sitges Carnival is one of the most emblematic and multitudinous celebrations in Catalonia, which takes place every year between the months of February and March. Music, dancing, colors, costumes and good atmosphere envelop the streets of Sitges in an event that attracts about 300,000 people.

It was at the end of the 19th century when it began to have more importance due to the confrontation of two societies (Societat Recreativa El Retiro and the Casino Prado Suburense). Both societies confronted each other continuously, since in the first one were grouped those harmed by the industrialization and in the last one those favored by it. The competitiveness between the two associations turned the carnival into a more and more creative and spectacular celebration.

When is the Sitges Carnival 2026?

The 2026 Sitges Carnival will be held from February 7 to 18. During these days, the city offers a program full of activities, which will culminate in the traditional Burial of the Sardine on Wednesday, February 18.

Sitges Carnival 2026 Program

Here are some of the most important events that will be held this year.

Pre-Carnival Vermouth: February 1st

On the Sunday before the festivities begin, at 11:30 am, the Sociedad del Retiro celebrates its distinctive vermouth in its gardens to get into the carnival spirit, with an open bar and music. 

Presentation of the Children's Queen and the Queen of the Sitges Carnival 2026: February 7th

This show will take place on February 7, starring the Colla de la Reina Infantil, and later the Carnival Queen presented by the group La Salsa del Xató, at the Teatro Casino Prado. Admission is free, although seating is limited. Tickets can be purchased at the organization's office. 

23rd Contest of Maestros Xatonaires and Gran Quinto Carnavalero:  February 8th

On Sunday, February 8, Jardines del Casino Prado will host, at 11 am, the Contest of Maestros Xatonaires, with categories for children, youth and adults. While in the afternoon, at 6 pm, there will be the Gran Quinto Carnavalero, a special bingo in Saló Teatre of the Societat Recreativa El Retiro. The price of the card is 6 euros.

Arrival of His Majesty Carnestoltes and his retinue: February 12th

This popular event will take place on February 12 at 7 pm, with a route that will start at La Fragata and pass through Paseo de la Ribera, Bonaire, Parellades, Cap de la Vila and Major, ending at the Town Hall, where His Majesty Carnestoltes will deliver the Proclamation. That night xatonadas will be held in various parts of the city, with the presence of His Majesty Carnestoltes and the Carnival Queen. At the Palau del Rei Moro at 9:30 pm, there will be a surprise performance, and La Gallofa, a satirical and uncensored magazine, will be distributed. All tickets for the xatonadas can be purchased at the secretaries of the entities.

Visit to Sitges schools: February 13th

On February 13, His Majesty Carnestoltes and the Carnival Queen will visit schools, kindergartens and retirement homes, bringing the spirit of Carnival to the entire community.

Rua de Antes: February 13th

That same evening, at 7:30 pm, Rua de Antes returns, where participants can come dressed up with the first thing they find at home. The Queen's retinue will be in charge of animating the meeting point and Her Majesty Carnestoltes will also be present. The route starts at Cap de la Vila and ends at the same point.

Costumed bed race: February 14th

This fun race will start at the gates of the Casino Prado and will continue its route to the Paseo de la Ribera. At the end, the prize will be awarded to the winning groups and the route will be closed together with the Carnival Queen, the Children's Queen and Her Majesty Carnestoltes. 

Fardo Afternoon: February 14th

Following the bed race, the party continues in the gardens of the Societat Recreativa El Retiro. You can go in costume to enjoy music from various DJs and the cover band “La Banda del Fardo.”

Tequereque Party: February 14th

This party will take place in the most emblematic streets of Sitges and will feature performances by Markatú Batuquets and Markatú Batucada. The tour will start at the Town Hall Square at 5 pm.

Xató dinner with show: February 14th

To end the day, at 9 pm, His Majesty Carnestoltes will attend the dinner organized at the Prado Theater, where guests can enjoy the new show by the Carrusel del Prado theater company.

Children's Parade: February 15th

It's time for the little ones to shine: the Children's Parade will start at 12 pm at the end of Avenida Sofia, passing along the Ribera promenade by the sea, La Fragata, and turning around on the mountain side of La Ribera, Bassa Rodona, Plaza del Pou Vedre, Espalter, Sant Francesc, and ending at Cap de la Vila.

Rua de la Disbauxa: February 15th

And, of course, the most anticipated event of the Carnival. The parade of floats will take place at 7:30 pm, leaving from the end of Avenida Sofia to reach Cap de la Vila, and later, from 11 pm to 3 am, you can not miss the dance and party. 

Rua Infantil and Rua del Extermini: February 17th

The children's groups of Sitges will parade again with their floats and costumes on the penultimate day of Carnival at 12 pm, following the same route. In the evening, at 9:00 pm, the adult groups will also parade one last time.

Burial of His Majesty Carnestoltes: February 18th

As everything comes to an end, Ash Wednesday pays tribute to the death of His Majesty Carnestoltes, the king of Carnival, with the burial of the sardine. His coffin is carried through the streets of Sitges while the retinue of widows follow him, disconsolate, to the place where the will is read. With this act that will take place at 7 pm, the carnival says goodbye until next year.

 

To enjoy the best views of the parades and events at Sitges Carnival 2026 up close, choose one of our apartments in the Ocean Blue and Ocean Front buildings, located in strategic spots so you don’t miss a single moment of the celebration. Make your reservation now!

Cover photo: Javi García