Puerto de la Cruz hosted its latest edition of the Summer Carnival over the weekend, bringing together the finest in art, festivity, and carnival identity during three vibrant days from 19th to 21st September, resulting in a highly positive outcome.
A Hosts of Talents Shine
More than 40 artists and groups from various disciplines – including comparsas, choreographic groups, batucadas, acrobats, orchestras, DJs, and numerous drag performers – participated in an event that blended traditional carnival elements with contemporary cultural expressions, reinforcing the city’s status as a hub of diversity, dynamism, and creativity.
Opening Gala
On Friday, the Costa Martiánez Tourist Complex served as the opening stage for the established Gala Transgresora, directed artistically by Wycho Torres, presenting a first-class show.
Artists who took to the stage included Grimasira Maeva, Drag Chuchi, Exuberancia Carey, Vanesa Artiles, Aythami Legendary, and Drag Armek, the winner of the Drag Gala at the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Carnival 2025, with the evening’s finale performed by Lady Blue. Additionally, the comparsas Son Bahía and the choreographic group Essavan contributed rhythm and authenticity to a festive and inclusive night.
Festival Diversas
The carnival festivities continued on Saturday with the Festival Diversas, which transformed the Andromeda hall at Costa Martiánez into a celebration of art in all its forms. Directed by multifaceted artist Marcela Kaufmann and presenter Ibán Padrón, the festival showcased over 20 artists and collectives in a spectacular display of music, humour, acrobatics, dance, and visual art.
Notable participants included singers Daniel Tejera and Sonia Gil; drag performer and comedian Judith; rhythmic gymnast Cristofer Benítez Hernández; actor and director Josel Angelino; and the acrobatic skating duo Zobel and Amy. They were joined by ballet groups Dibelo & CO; Maravillas featuring Yaminet Rojas and Irene Carballo; pole dance and acrobatic artists Gaia Vanzo and Ada Bez; and the comparsa Los Cariocas, who energized the audience with their infectious rhythms.
Grand Finale
The night concluded with performances from Ni un Pelo de Tonto, The Boys Machine, and DJ Ubay Hernández, who kept attendees dancing through the early hours with La Pachanga del Carnaval.
2026 Carnival Preview
A highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the official poster for the International Carnival 2026, which will take place from 1st to 28th February. The artwork, inspired by Mexican culture, was created by local illustrator Jonás Emmanuel Hernández, who incorporated local symbols such as the sculpture of the fisherwoman at the dock, while also referencing the Mascarita Ponte Tacón and the beloved figure of Pepe, one of the most cherished masks in the Puerto de la Cruz Carnival.
Culmination at Playa Jardín
Playa Jardín hosted the closing event where choreographic and percussion groups Danzarines Canarios, Essavan, Barabere, and comparsas Son Bahía, Bahía, and Sabaiba – the latter two originating from La Palma – showcased powerful rhythms from Guayota Drums in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
With a large turnout and a clear message of inclusion and cultural celebration, the Summer Carnival concluded, pledging to continue growing and delighting audiences in future editions.
