Gran Cabalgata Maspalomas: 108 floats finally roll through Playa del Ingles — 350,000 visitors expected

A week later than planned, but with even greater anticipation: the Gran Cabalgata of the Carnaval Internacional de Maspalomas 2026 takes place this afternoon. It is the biggest carnival parade in the Canary Islands, and after the chaos caused by Storm Therese, it has become a symbol of the return to normality in southern Gran Canaria.

108 floats, up to 350,000 people

Originally 115 floats were registered, but after the storm-forced postponement from 21 to 28 March, ten participants pulled out. The remaining 108 floats will roll through the main streets of Playa del Ingles from 5pm under the theme "El Circo" (The Circus). Organisers expect up to 350,000 spectators along the route.

The route

The parade starts at Avenida de Italia, near Hotel Parque Tropical in the El Veril area. From there it proceeds along Avenida de Gran Canaria and Avenida 8 de Marzo to the junction with Avenida Touroperador TUI, heading towards the Maspalomas Lighthouse.

Road closures and traffic

From 2pm, the main roads along the route will be closed. If you are heading to the south, arrive early or take the bus. The entire Playa del Ingles area will be virtually car-free from the afternoon onwards. Residents can access their homes via controlled points.

Mogollones into the night

After the Cabalgata, the programme continues at the Yumbo Centre: from 11pm the mogollones (street parties) kick off with live music on the main stage (Rafael Caso, Brian de la Cruz, Star Music, Toni Bob, Leyenda Joven) and DJ sets in the chiringuito zone.

Tomorrow: Entierro de la Sardina

On Sunday 29 March, the traditional Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine) at 7pm closes the 2026 carnival. The funeral procession runs from Avenida Estados Unidos to Anexo II in Playa del Ingles. A tribute concert to Juan Luis Guerra follows at 9pm.