NERJA CARNIVAL begins on Thursday 23rd February 2017. This well established tradition, starting a week before lent, contains a variation of floats and costumes made by participants. The procession consists of an assortment of fun and activities over the four day period including two processions, contests and ending with a firework display.
During the festivities a bizarre but long standing Spanish tradition takes place. A largely decorated anchovy is paraded along the streets of Nerja to the La Calahonda Beach where it is blown up during the firework display.
The Carnival opening takes place, on Thursday, at the Cultural centre from 7pm, with speeches and comedy performances from local performers. Entry is free, but places are limited - The ticket office will provide these allocated tickets from 6pm.
FRIDAY sees the fancy dress competition for adults and children alike, with cash prizes, in the Plaza España at 5:30pm.
With the SATURDAY parade starting at 5pm, it´s time to show off the competition winners alongside the floats and variety of costumes from anyone who wants to join in! The parade finishes off in the Plaza España with a big party and plenty of dancing!
Parade: Calle Jaen, Calle Diputación, Plaza Cavana, Calle Granada, Plaza de la Ermita, Calle San Miguel, Plaza de Cantarero, Calle Pintada, Puerta del Mar and then returning to Plaza de España.
SUNDAY, and events kick off at 11:30am in Plaza de España with a competition for best pet outfit, followed by a children´s competition of best little widow / widower. From 4pm a municipal band starts off the procession slowly marching through the streets to Calahonda Beach. With the giant anchovy leading the participants following in mourner style, wailing and crying over its death. The anchovy is then bloen up during the firework display with onlookers watching from the Balcon de Europa.
Procession: Calle Carmen, Plaza Cavana, Calle Granada, Plaza de la Ermita, Calle La Cruz, Calle Pintada, Puerta del Mar and then down to Calahonda Beach.