This is one of the most famous and unique festivals celebrated each year. Here´s an inside look into the vibrant world of Carnival in Cádiz Spain. It's held for two weeks between the middle of February to the beginning of March in the coastal city of Cadiz. Thousands of visitors come from all over Spain each year and the world to check out this vibrant and energetic celebration of music, Spanish culture and tradition.
Carnaval is deeply rooted in culture and is a major reflection of the energetic spirit of Cadiz. The Venice Carnival was also a major influence dating back to the 16th century when traders brought back stories of elaborate celebrations in the Italian ports. Traditonally it takes place before lent and is a time of feasting and celebration leading up to Easter.
Famous Musical Competition COAC
One of the many highlights of carnaval is the big musical competition, which takes place at the Grand Falla Theater. The singing competition is known as the Concurso Oficial de Agrupaciones Carnavalescas de Cádiz or COAC for short. It’s the Official Contest of Carnival Groups of Cádiz and features various performances. These groups of musicians and singers come together to create satirical songs and short sketches about social and political issues happening within the country as well as current news.
Musical Groups of Carnival
Three groups include chirigotas, comparsas, and coros. Music groups sing satirical and humorous songs and perform short sketches about social and political issues throughout the past year. These groups are made up of local residents within Cadiz and other provinces of Andalucía. They spend months in preparation for their musical performances which include elaborate costumes, props and incredible songs.
In a similiar fashion each group has its authentic style. Each performance is judged based on criteria such as originality, humor and quality of the music. You could imagine the atmosphere and how energetic it is while the crowds of people cheer and sing along to the music.
Chirigotas are the comical groups of satire and wit that sing about current events. There are 10 men or women in a group accompanied by guitars, drums and my favorite kazoos.
Comparsas are serious and poetic groups that sing about politics and current news of the year.
Coros are larger groups of singers that may be funny at times but serious at others. In addition they are accompanied by string instruments.
Vibrant Costumes and Parades
In fact just like most carnivals, apart from the music competition, it features elaborate parades including floats, street performances, and cultural events throughout the city. There´s no surprise that the streets of Cadiz are filled with people dressed in all types of costumes and masks, creating a festive atmosphere.
Traditional food
Certainly the food choices are just as exciting. Seafood is the traditional choice when visiting the coast. Some of the local specialties such as a variety of fried fish, seafood, and delicious sherry wine, Jerez in Spanish being served in bars and restaurants.
If you are interested in learning more about traditional food in Spain check out my latest blog post The Ultimate Spanish Snack!
The traditional dish of the carnival is tortillita de camarones, a small fried shrimp cake that is one of absolute favorites. Have I convinced you yet? If you are looking for a delicious spot to grab a bite to eat check it out. Tucked away on a side street La Coñeta Freiduria serves up the most finger-liking good seafood and sandwiches!
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Conclusion
Ultimately Carnaval is an amazing and unforgettable experience that combines traditional Spanish customs and culture, music, and passion. If you ever get the chance to attend it, be sure to really immerse yourself in the atmosphere and don´t forget to wear your best costume!
Mercado de Cádiz
