Ready to uncover one of Tenerife’s wildest and most unforgettable traditions? The Entierro de la Sardina (Burial of the Sardine) during Carnaval in Los Cristianos is a dazzling mix of history, humor, and pure spectacle. I experienced it firsthand this Monday, March 31, 2025, at 9:00 PM, as the procession kicked off from Centro Cultural and ended with a fiery finale on the beach near Plaza del Pescador. Hosted by the Ayuntamiento de Arona, this event is a must-add to your Tenerife travel plans. In this post, I’ll reveal 5 fascinating secrets about this quirky celebration, dive into its rich history, and share my insider tips to make your visit epic. This is too good not to share – let’s dive in!
What Is the Entierro de la Sardina?
Imagine a giant papier-mâché sardine paraded through the streets, mourned by a crowd in black (with a hilarious twist), only to meet its fiery end on the beach. The Entierro de la Sardina is the grand finale of Carnaval in Los Cristianos, Tenerife, blending centuries-old tradition with modern-day flair. On March 31, I watched it unfold, starting at 9:00 PM from Centro Cultural and winding to the shore near Plaza del Pescador, where the sardine was burned around 11:00 PM. It’s a cultural explosion that draws locals and tourists alike – but what’s the story behind it? Here are 5 secrets that make it a Tenerife highlight!
1. A Farewell to Excess – The Hidden Meaning
The Entierro de la Sardina isn’t just a quirky party – it’s a symbolic send-off to Carnaval’s excesses. Think wild nights, rich feasts, and unrestrained fun, all embodied by that giant sardine. Historically, it marks the shift to Lent, a time of restraint before Easter. In Los Cristianos, the “mourners” – often men in drag – sob dramatically as they bid farewell to indulgence. It’s satirical, theatrical, and addictive to watch. On March 31, the crowd’s energy was electric as we followed the procession to the beach – a perfect slice of Tenerife spirit!
2. A Tradition Born Ethernet 18th Century
This fishy farewell dates back to 18th-century Spain – and possibly earlier. One tale credits King Charles III, who ordered spoiled sardines buried during a Madrid Carnaval, sparking the tradition. Another ties it to pagan rituals of renewal, with fire symbolizing a fresh start. In Tenerife, it’s evolved into a vibrant street party. On March 31, I felt the weight of history as the procession moved from Centro Cultural to the beach near Plaza del Pescador, proving Los Cristianos honors the past with flair.
3. Men in Drag Steal the Show – You Won’t Believe the Costumes!
Here’s the jaw-dropper: the “widows” mourning the sardine are often men in outrageous drag – think wigs, makeup, and over-the-top black dresses. This Carnaval tradition flips norms on their head, and on March 31, they stole the show. I snapped incredible photos as they wailed their way to the beach – pure comedy gold! It’s a visual feast you’ll want to capture whenever you visit Los Cristianos.
4. Fire and Farewell – The Grand Finale
The night peaks with the sardine’s dramatic end – burned or buried amid cheers and fireworks. On March 31, the burning happened around 11:00 PM on the beach near Plaza del Pescador, lighting up the sky and warming the crowd. It’s a symbolic release of the past, and in Los Cristianos, it’s pure magic. Hosted by the Ayuntamiento de Arona, this finale is a Tenerife moment you’ll never forget – whenever you catch it!
5. A Local Party with Global Appeal
Rooted in Spanish and Canarian culture, the Entierro de la Sardina has universal charm. On March 31, I mingled with locals and tourists from all over, soaking in the festive vibe. The procession wasn’t as overcrowded as peak Carnaval days, making it easier to enjoy. With over 50,000 visitors flocking to Tenerife’s Carnaval annually, Los Cristianos shines as a top spot. The Ayuntamiento de Arona ensures it’s a hit every time – a must-see for any traveler!
My Insider Tips from March 31, 2025
I experienced the Entierro de la Sardina this Monday, March 31, at 9:00 PM, and here’s what I learned:
- Skip the Start: Don’t wait at Centro Cultural when the procession begins – it’s packed! Head further along the route toward the beach near Plaza del Pescador for better photo and video ops with less crowding.
- Parking Hack: Parking near central Los Cristianos is a nightmare during events. Instead, park at Centro Comercial Pasarela – the second parking level usually has plenty of spots, even on busy nights.
- Timing Matters: The procession starts at 9:00 PM and the burning happens around 11:00 PM. After that, folks head back to Centro Cultural to celebrate, as many restaurants start closing. Plan accordingly!
- Less Crowded Than Carnaval: Unlike peak Carnaval Los Cristianos, the streets weren’t overly packed, and parking was easier to find – a big plus for a stress-free night.
Travel Hack: Bring comfy shoes and a camera – you’ll want to follow the procession all the way to the beach!
Why Los Cristianos Is the Place to Be
With its coastal charm, lively nightlife, and proximity to Tenerife gems like Siam Park and Mount Teide, Los Cristianos is a tourist paradise. The Entierro de la Sardina adds a cultural twist to your trip, whether you catch it like I did on March 31 or during another Carnaval event. It’s free, central, and perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families exploring the Canary Islands. Book your stay early – hotels near Centro Cultural and Plaza del Pescador fill up fast during Carnaval season!
The History in a Nutshell
From its 18th-century roots to its modern Tenerife glory, the Entierro de la Sardina is a celebration of excess, renewal, and laughter. In Los Cristianos, the Ayuntamiento de Arona keeps it alive with passion, blending tradition with tourist-friendly fun. My night on March 31 was proof – it’s a story every traveler should experience.
Plan Your Visit – Entierro de la Sardina 2025
- My Experience: Monday, March 31, 2025, 9:00 PM (Centro Cultural to beach near Plaza del Pescador)
- Cost: Free entry
- Tips: Skip the start, park smart at Centro Comercial Pasarela, and enjoy the less-crowded vibe!
Ready to dive into this Tenerife tradition? Share this post with your travel crew and plan your Los Cristianos adventure. The Entierro de la Sardina is more than a party – it’s a cultural must-see that’ll hook you on Tenerife’s magic.
Loved these secrets and tips? Share this post now with #TenerifeTravel – let’s make this Carnaval unforgettable!
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