YARNIVAL!! Yarn Club Page

Each year, the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, on Spain’s Canary Islands, explode with colour, sound, and sequins during one of the world’s largest and most extravagant carnivals. Drawing over 250,000 attendees to its grand parade alone, this vibrant celebration rivals Rio de Janeiro’s for scale and spectacle. Held in February, Carnival here pays tribute to fun, freedom, and satire, echoing deep-rooted traditions that stretch back to the 18th century. The festivities span nearly a month, featuring dazzling costumes, rhythmic street parties, flamboyant drag galas, and elaborate floats. Most iconic is the Election of the Carnival Queen, where contestants wear jaw-droppingly ornate gowns weighing up to 100 kilograms. With its rich blend of Caribbean rhythm, Spanish flair, and surreal theatricality, Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival has earned UNESCO’s recognition as a masterpiece of intangible heritage. For visitors, it’s not just a party—it’s an unforgettable cultural phenomenon.