In Nerja, Carnival is not just a date marked on the calendar. It is one of those celebrations that is lived in the streets, combining tradition, humour and community participation, and reminding us why this town maintains such a strong identity throughout the year.

From 12 to 15 February, Nerja will celebrate its 2026 Carnival, a much-anticipated event that will fill the town with music, costumes and a festive atmosphere, both for those who live here all year round and for those who choose these dates to visit.

Nerja Carnival is lived in the streets and forms part of the town’s local identity.

Four days during which the town once again becomes a meeting point for residents and visitors alike, combining creativity, tradition and fun in a close, participatory atmosphere that is part of everyday local life.

The start of Carnival: opening speech and tradition

Carnival will begin on Thursday, 12 February, with the official opening speech at the Villa de Nerja Cultural Centre, delivered by Antonio Cabra Ruiz “Chiribita”, accompanied by performances from local murgas and a festive atmosphere that marks the official start of the celebrations.

On the same day, visitors can also enjoy the exhibition dedicated to the Burial of the Chanquete, open from 1 to 15 February at the Puerto del Mar exhibition hall, showcasing one of the most distinctive and beloved traditions of Nerja’s Carnival.

Competitions, costumes and life in the streets

Friday is especially designed for families and young people, with children’s, youth and adult competitions, the presentation of the Ninfas and Momo, dance performances and a youth costume party to close the day.

Saturday brings one of the most anticipated moments of Carnival: the grand parade, with marching bands, batucadas and animation groups touring the main streets of the town, as well as the exhibition of costumes in Plaza España.

It is one of those days when Nerja transforms without losing its essence, clearly reflecting local life, community participation and an atmosphere that cannot be improvised.

The Burial of the Chanquete: tradition and farewell

The traditional Burial of the Chanquete on Sunday, 15 February, will bring Carnival to a close, with music throughout the day, street parades and the symbolic burning on Calahonda Beach, followed by the prize-giving ceremony.

An event that combines humour, tradition and a strong sense of community, keeping alive one of the most deeply rooted customs of Nerja’s Carnival.

More than a celebration: a way of life in Nerja

Events such as Carnival reflect something we see every day: Nerja is not just a tourist destination, but a place where traditions continue to be part of daily life.

For many people who choose to live here, whether all year round or seasonally, celebrations like this make a real difference and reinforce the feeling of belonging to a town with its own identity.

Because in Nerja, quality of life is also measured in shared traditions.

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