Carnival is one of the most iconic festivities in Catalonia, especially in cities like Tarragona and Reus, where it is celebrated with great enthusiasm and strong community participation. These celebrations feature vibrant parades, contemporary music and a lively atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors.
Beyond being an occasion for fun, Carnival in Catalonia has a rich history and symbolism that has endured for centuries. From the iconic figures of King Carnestoltes to the parades and costume contests, every element of this festivity has a special meaning.
In this article, we will explore the origins of Carnival in Catalonia and take a closer look at the unique features of the 2025 parades in Tarragona and Reus. Travel to these two Catalan cities on Costa Dorada with Shuttle2Sun‘s low-cost and sustainable shared transfer services and private transfer services from Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Port, Reus Airport, Girona Airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
Origin of Carnival in Catalonia
Carnival, known in Catalonia as Carnestoltes, traces its roots to ancient pagan celebrations making the end of winter and the arrival of spring. These celebrations were characterised by the transgression of social norms, costumes and lavish feasts. With the spread of Christianity, Carnival became part of the liturgical calendar, coming just before Lent, a period marked by fasting and reflection.
In Catalonia, Carnival begins with Dijous Gras (Fat Thursday) and culminates on Dimecres de Cendra (Ash Wednesday), when the burial of King Carnestoltes is celebrated, symbolising the end of excesses and the beginning of penitence.
The figures of King Carnestoltes and Vella Quaresma are central to the festive narrative. King Carnestoltes represents joy and debauchery, while the Vella Quaresma personifies the austerity and moderation that characterise the post-Carnival period.
Carnival in Tarragona
In Tarragona, Carnival is one of the most eagerly awaited festivities of the year, and for this 2025, the programme promises to be spectacular. From February 21st to March 4th, the city fills up with events that combine tradition, spectacle and mass participation.
The Disfressa d’Or
One of the most remarkable events is the Disfressa d’Or, a show celebrating its 25th anniversary, taking place on February 23rd in three sessions: at 12 noon, 5 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. This event brings together the city’s most emblematic troupes, who present their best costumes in a display of creativity and colour. The Disfressa d’Or is a competition where the best costumes and the best staging are awarded, making it a showcase for the city’s artistic talent.
With Shuttle2Sun‘s shared transfer services and private transfer services, low-cost and sustainable, you can get to Tarragona and Reus, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
La Rua de l’Artesania and La Rua de Lluïment
The parades are the heart and soul of Tarragona’s Carnival. The Rua de l’Artesania and the Rua de Lluïment are parades that stand out for the quality and originality of the groups taking part. The Rua de l’Artesania is characterised by the craftsmanship of the costumes and floats, while the Rua de Lluïment is a display of luxury and splendour that runs through the main streets of the city, together with the Seguici del Carnestoltes i la Concubina, offering an impressive visual spectacle.
This year, the Rua de l’Artesania will be held on 1st of March at 6 p.m., starting from Avinguda Ramón y Cajal and running along Rambla Nova, Carrer Rovira i Virgili, Plaça Anselm Clavé and Avinguda Catalunya. The Rua de Lluïment will take place on 2nd of March at 6 p.m., with a similar route. These parades are attract thousands of spectators, who parade to the rhythm of the music in an explosion of energy and fun.
The Baixada del Pajaritu
Another unique event is the Baixada del Pajaritu, a race of costumed contraptions down the steep streets of Tarragona. This event blends creativity and humour, making it one of the most anticipated highlights for locals. Participants design their own vehicles, with quirky and fun themes, creating a spectacle full of laughter and excitement.
This event will take place on 1st of March, at 11 a.m., on the Pescateria descent, Cós del Bou street, Misericòrdia descent, Carrer de la Nau and Plaça del Rei, attracting both contestants and spectators who enjoy the creativity and good humour.
Reus Carnival 2025
Reus, for its part, also celebrates Carnival with a programme rich in activities. The festival includes massive parades, costume contests and more traditional events.
Parades and the spirit of participation
Carnival in Reus is known for its participatory nature, with numerous troupes and local bodies getting involved in organising events. On Saturday, 1st of March, at 6 p.m., the Rua de Lluïment will take place, with all the participating groups and presided over by the Carnestoltes King and Queen; and on Sunday, 2nd of March, at 6 p.m., you can enjoy the Battle of Confetti, one of the most eagerly awaited events, on Avinguda de Sant Jordi.
Parallel activities
In addition to the parades, it is common for parallel activities to take place, such as musical performances, with deejays and orchestras, like Dr. Calippo and DJ Aleix Ballester; festive vermouths, traditional dances; shows and much more.
In short, Carnival in Catalonia is a festival full of colour, music and tradition. Tarragona and Reus offer a programme full of activities for 2025, making them must-visit destinations for those eager to experience the essence of this unique celebration. Remember that with Shuttle2Sun‘s shared transfer services and private transfer services, low-cost and sustainable, you can reach these destinations on Costa Dorada, from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
