February 12-March 8 Alicante Carnival 2026: Your guide to the fun ahead

Ramblero Saturday headlines fun from Thursday February 12 to Sunday March 8

January has felt like a long month, but Alicante has something exciting to look forward to with Carnival 2026 just around the corner. One of the most beloved and vibrant celebrations here, it sees music, costumes, and festive spirit take over the city, especially along the famous Rambla de Méndez Núñez for the standout Saturday night known as Sabado Ramblero. Thousands of people of all ages join in the dancing and fun, transforming the avenue into a spectacular display of colour and joy.

• Thursday February 12 (Dijous de Gras/Fat Thursday): Correfocs fire parade from 9.30pm to 11.30pm through downtown streets like Plaza 25 de Mayo, Calle Calderon de la Barca, and Plaza San Cristobal, plus Ball de Diables and Arribada del Momo, followed by a concert until 2am.

• Friday February 13 (Viernes de Pregon): Official proclamation in Plaza del Carmen at 10pm, a warm invite to all, then a concert until 4am.

• Saturday February 14 (Ramblero Saturday): Kids' fun from 5pm on Rambla de Méndez Núñez with Brilli Brilli face-painting, accessory workshops, and Guillermo Avilés' Divermagia magic show. Batucada at 7pm leads to Plaza del Carmen music until 4.30am. From 10pm, DJs Alesmile, Da Rossi (Costa Sonora set), Sergio Salinas (Big Sound), and Fredy Vidal near Casa de la Festa; Orquesta Evasión in Portal de Elche. Charity bars for Alinur, Apsa, Apamm.

• Tuesday February 17: Trial and Procession of the Pelele at 8pm, burning at 9pm in Plaza del Carmen, concert after.

• Wednesday February 18: Burial of the Sardine from 11.30pm – procession, burning, live music until 2am.

• Sunday March 8 (Domingo de Piñata): Family games in Plaza de Argel from 10am to 6pm.