Carnival in Nerja and surroundings

If you're on the Costa del Sol in February, you won't escape the joyful atmosphere of Carnival. While Nerja might seem a quieter place than, say, Cádiz, the Carnival celebrations here have their own authentic charm. It's a period when the town comes alive with parades, costumes, and especially a lot of music and camaraderie. Let's delve into the traditions and festivities you can expect this month.

## 1. The run-up to Carnival: Preparations and mood

The days leading up to the official Carnival are a celebration in themselves. Everywhere in the shops, you'll see Carnival supplies, from colorful wigs to the wildest costumes. Schools and cultural associations work for months on their performances and floats. You'll notice the building anticipation in the air; locals look forward to it annually. Nerja usually celebrates Carnival in the week before Ash Wednesday, meaning the exact dates shift slightly each year, but it always falls in February or early March. Festivities often begin on a Thursday and last until Sunday.

• Time: Usually the week leading up to Ash Wednesday.
• Location: Throughout Nerja's center, with smaller events in various barrios.

2. The Grand Carnival Parade: An explosion of color and music

The highlight of the celebrations is the great Carnival parade, the 'Gran Cabalgata del Carnaval'. This usually takes place on Saturday evening. You'll see families, groups of friends, and associations who have spent months working on their costumes and choreography. The procession is a joyful parade of floats, dancers, and much music that winds through Nerja's main streets. The route often starts near Plaza de la Ermita and ends at the Balcón de Europa or another central square, where the party continues with live music and performances.

• Date: Usually the Saturday evening during Carnival.
• Start point: Often near Plaza de la Ermita.
• Directions: Open in Google Maps (indication)
• End point: Balcón de Europa or Plaza de España.
• Directions: Open in Google Maps (Balcón de Europa)
• Directions: Open in Google Maps (Plaza de España)
• Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot along the route, especially if you're with children.

## 3. Competitions and performances: Murgas and Comparsas

Carnival in Spain is inextricably linked with musical competitions. In Nerja, you can enjoy the 'Murgas' and 'Comparsas'. These are groups that spend weeks beforehand rehearsing satirical songs and humorous sketches about local and national events. The Murgas are known for their humor and socially critical lyrics, often delivered with a wink. The Comparsas are more serious and artistic, with elaborate costumes and emotional singing. These performances usually take place on a stage in Plaza de España and attract a large audience.

• Location: Plaza de España.
• Directions: Open in Google Maps
• Time: Various evenings throughout Carnival week.

## 4. Children's activities and family fun

Carnival has traditionally been a celebration for all ages, and in Nerja, you'll see that reflected. There's a special children's parade, often on Sunday afternoon, where the little ones proudly show off their homemade or bought costumes. In addition, workshops and games are often organized, aimed at children. This makes Carnival in Nerja a fantastic experience for families. The atmosphere is always lively and safe, and you'll see smiling faces everywhere.

• Event: Children's parade ('Cabalgata Infantil').
• Location: Usually through the center, ending in one of the squares for activities.
• Tip: If you're traveling with children, definitely plan a visit to one of these family-friendly events.

## 5. The Burial of the Sardine: Farewell to the festivities

Every Carnival ends with a symbolic farewell: the 'Entierro de la Sardina' (Burial of the Sardine). This is a unique tradition that marks the transition from the exuberance of Carnival to the solemnity of Lent. On Carnival Sunday or Tuesday, you'll see a mournful procession of 'widowers and widows' (people in black clothing) carrying a large, symbolic sardine through the streets. Eventually, the sardine is carried to the beach and there, amidst loud wailing and lamentation, set on fire or cast into the sea. It's a spectacular and slightly bizarre conclusion to the festivities.

• Date: Last day of Carnival (often Carnival Sunday or Tuesday evening).
• Location: Starts in the center and ends at one of the beaches, such as Playa Calahonda or Playa de la Torrecilla.
• Directions (Calahonda): Open in Google Maps
• Directions (Torrecilla): Open in Google Maps

## 6. Parking and practical tips

During Carnival days, especially on the evenings of the parades, finding a parking spot in Nerja can be challenging. The smaller streets in the center are often closed to traffic. It's best to park in one of the larger parking garages on the outskirts of the center and walk to the festivities from there, which takes about 10-15 minutes.

• Public parking garages:
• Parking Balcón de Europa: Underneath the Balcón de Europa, often fills up quickly.
• Directions: Open in Google Maps
• Parking Verano Azul: Larger parking garage, a bit further from the center, but often more availability.
• Directions: Open in Google Maps
• Transportation: Consider a taxi if you want to party worry-free for an evening.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Don't forget an extra layer of clothing, as evenings in February can be cool, even if you're dancing.

Carnival in Nerja is a unique opportunity to experience local culture and participate in a joyous folk festival. You'll see the true soul of the community reflected in the dedication with which everyone participates. From the colorful parades to the satirical songs and the melancholic Burial of the Sardine, it's a period full of tradition and fun. Enjoy the atmosphere and let yourself be carried away by the Andalusian Carnival spirit. A stay at Casa del Olvido offers you the perfect base to easily reach all the festivities, while enjoying comfort and tranquility.

Book your stay at Casa del Olvido now and experience the magic of Carnival in Nerja!