The 2026 Carnival in Águilas promises to redefine the concept of large-scale festivities in Spain. This coastal town in Murcia once again becomes a stage for the clash of tradition and innovation, with each day delivering new surprises. This year, organizers have focused on expanding the program, introducing unexpected characters, and maximizing the engagement of both locals and visitors. It is already clear: no one will be left indifferent.
Recognized as an international tourism gem, this event does more than just adorn the calendar—it shapes the economy, tourism, and even the mood of the region. For an entire month, the streets of Águilas transform into a stage where fantasy, irony, and age-old rituals collide. It’s not just about dancing and singing here—debates, competitions, surprises, and even provocations unfold. Every year, the carnival becomes a battleground between tradition enthusiasts and those hungry for change.
Origins and Symbols
The Carnival in Águilas is more than a celebration—it’s a cultural phenomenon tracing back to the 18th century. Over the years, it has survived bans, secret gatherings, and revival, evolving into an event discussed across the country today. At its heart are four characters, each representing a facet of human nature. Mussa embodies fantasy and beauty, Don Carnal stands for boldness and freedom, Doña Cuaresma symbolizes strictness and order, and Mussona is the mysterious figure merging the wild and the civilized. Their confrontation is more than just theater—it’s a reflection of the timeless struggle between instinct and rules.
In 2026, special attention is focused on choosing new heroes. Each of them goes through a tough selection process, and their appearance on stage becomes a true event. This year, the role of Musa went to a young woman whose charisma is already sparking discussions on social media, while Don Carnal promises to surprise the audience with unexpected satire. As always, Mussona will appear suddenly, serving as a reminder of the festival’s ancient roots.
Calendar and program
The carnival kicks off on January 31 and wraps up on March 6, offering over a month packed with events. The main parades and key rituals take place in mid-February, when the city erupts with color, music, and emotion. This year’s program is even more diverse: alongside traditional processions, there are sports competitions, costume contests, music festivals, and even regattas.
A special highlight is the grand opening, where renowned singer Ruth Lorenzo will perform in the main square. Her appearance is set to become one of the most talked-about moments of the carnival. Throughout the week, there will be duels between Don Carnal and Doña Cuaresma, contests for the best costume, and the famous ‘battle of the cascarones’—when thousands of eggs filled with confetti are smashed across the streets.
Tickets and access
For those who want to watch the festivities in maximum comfort, tickets and season passes for the best seats along the parade routes are available for purchase. In 2026, prices range from 5 to 40 euros, depending on the day and location. The ticketing system has become more flexible: tickets can now be bought both online and at special box offices, making the process much easier for visitors from other cities.
Organizers note that ticket demand is at a record high this year. Many sections of the route are already sold out, and more and more people want to attend the main events. This comes as no surprise: the carnival in Águilas has long since outgrown its status as a local tradition and become a magnet for tourists from all over Europe.
The city and its atmosphere
Águilas is transformed beyond recognition during carnival days. Hundreds of installations decorate the streets, shop windows turn into works of art, and cafés and restaurants offer special menus inspired by the festive theme. Locals enthusiastically participate in the preparations, while visitors note a special atmosphere of openness and hospitality.
Outside the season, Águilas is a tranquil seaside town where life unfolds at a relaxed pace. But come February, chaos takes over: music plays until morning, and the streets fill with people in the most incredible costumes. For many, it’s not just entertainment—it’s a way to express themselves and to feel a deep connection with the city and its history.
Main events
Key highlights of the carnival include grand parades, a drag queen competition, sports events, and of course, the final night with the burning of Don Carnal and fireworks. Each of these moments attracts thousands of spectators and sparks lively discussions in the media and on social networks. This year, particular attention is given to safety and organization: city authorities have tightened control measures to ensure the festivities proceed without incident.
There are also several innovations: for the first time, the program features a body painting festival as well as new formats for musical performances. All of this makes the 2026 carnival the most eventful and unpredictable in recent years.
Ruth Lorenzo, the carnival’s guest star, hails from Murcia and is renowned not only in Spain but internationally. Her participation in the festival’s opening became a real sensation for locals and visitors alike. The artist is famous for her powerful voice and striking stage presence, as well as for taking part in international music competitions. In recent years, she has actively supported cultural initiatives in her home region, which has only increased interest in her appearance at the Águilas carnival.
