“Don’t stop the Carnival”. In fact on Lanzarote the carnival season seems pretty endless – as the major fiesta of the year actually goes on for weeks in various locations across the island. Much to the delight of the many tourists who specifically plan their holidays on the island around this annual celebration.
So far Carnival has cut a swathe through the island capital of Arrecife and is about to take over the islands most popular resort of Puerto del Carmen. Before moving on to the other main resorts of Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise. Whilst virtually every village and town on the island will also be getting in on the act too.
Carnival first arrived in Lanzarote and the Canaries with the Spanish invaders back in the 1400´s. And has been enthusiastically embraced by the locals ever since. So much so in fact that General Franco felt compelled to outlaw the event for thirty odd years back in the 1930’s.
Today Carnival retains a strong anti-establishment streak – as many carnival goers devise costumes that specifically poke fun at local and international politicians and businessmen. Whilst also taking every opportunity to over –indulge – a practice that has its roots in the fact that carnival was originally a means of letting off steam before the onset of Lent.
The centre piece of each Carnival is the main parade – which always features intricately themed floats, massed drum bands and an array of colourful costumes and characters. And whilst not as riotous as Rio Carnival provides a great excuse to enjoy a holiday on the Island of Fire.
