Whilst the largest and most spectacular events take place in Las Palmas between the 29th of January and the 20th of February the small towns also like to celebrate in style. Arguineguin is celebrating Carnival on the 26th, 27th and the 28th of February, ours is a mini Carnival without the extravagance, large crowds and duration of Las Palmas but without a doubt a very enjoyable and lively atmosphere is to be found.
Events include the election of the Carnival Queen usually held on the Friday but the most popular and fun event is the Carnival parade (known locally as the “cabalgataâ€) which is held on Saturday evening. Everybody is welcome to join in as they wish but the parade consists of people of all ages and nationalities in fancy dress costumes of all imaginable humorous styles and numerous colourfully decorated floats. The parade starts at one end of the village and ends at the market square and all the participants are found dancing on the floats or walking and dancing to the party music while animating the watching crowds.
Once the “Cabalgata†ends the “mogollon†(Carnival mass) begins in the market square where you will find music, live events, fair rides for the kids and catering stands with seating areas serving drinks and food.
Finally for those who still have some energy left and do not have sensitive hearing the final stop is around the corner where the loud music and dancing continues until the sun comes up!
Carnival is one of the main highlights of the year for the locals and will surly be great fun for the visitors to our island who unexpectedly find themselves joining in.
If you happen to be around try spotting some of our team who are faithful followers of this event!
By Lucy Evans (in the foto from left to right, Lonnie, Leonor and Lucy, from Cardenas)
