Seven weeks after the first full moon after the winter solstice, Carnival is celebrated, known as Carnestoltes in Catalunya. It's not just about dressing up (although it's certainly the funniest part), but every day of this celebration has some "special rituals."
We started on Thursday, known as "dijous gras". If in your student apartment you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, you should know that on that day we eat tortillas, butifarra de huevo and "coca de llardons".
And with a full stomach, propose to your roommates to receive the King Carnestoltes and their ambassadors. The party begins in the Palau de la Virreina with a parade and then in Plaça Sant Jaume is received the king of Carnival, who from the balcony of the town hall will open the most crazy week.
If you are one of those who dress up and want to live this party to the fullest, we recommend you visit Sitges, a beautiful seaside town known for its unrestrained Carnival party. Take a look: http://www.visitsitges.com/en/channels-and-traditions/31-carnaval-de-sitges
After a very lively weekend, on Wednesday we make the "saddest of celebrations". We say the carnival until next year with a funeral, which buries a sardine that symbolizes the past.
If these days of Carnival you want to visit other points of the Spanish geography, we recommend you visit the fun Carnivals of Cadiz, which fill the streets with humorous sarcastic songs known as "chirigotas". Or, of course, travel to the heat of the Canaries where you can get to know the most colorful Carnival and to rest a bit of this winter that is already giving the last snatch.
Do you disguise yourself or not, stay in your student apartment or travel, we wish you a very happy Carnestoltes !!!!