Casa del Carnaval

Casa del Carnaval is a museum dedicated to the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, one of the most celebrated festivities in the Canary Islands and officially recognized as a Festival of International Tourist Interest. The building sits in the Barranco de Santos park, right next to the Galcerán bridge in the heart of Tenerife's capital, making it an easy stop while exploring downtown.

What will you see inside?

The exhibition changes every year to reflect the latest edition of the Carnival. On permanent display are some of the most striking costumes and headdresses from recent seasons, including the gown worn by that year's Carnival Queen and the outfits of the murgas (satirical music groups) and comparsas (dance troupes) that compete in the streets each year. Carnival banners and symbols get their own space, and a video wall screens footage from past parades and contests, letting visitors soak up the festive atmosphere even outside carnival season.

Casa del Carnaval, however, is more than a display case of costumes. The museum has a clear educational focus, with an interactive area where visitors — including school groups — can try on replica costumes, masks and wigs, and touch the percussion instruments used in the parades. It offers a hands-on look at the craftsmanship behind every outfit: embroidery, feathers, sequins and the elaborate back-mounted structures that can rival a small car in size.

How do you get there?

The museum stands right in the center of Santa Cruz, in the park above the Barranco de Santos ravine, on Calle Aguere. It is an easy walk from the city's main squares and shopping streets, usually no more than fifteen minutes on foot. Admission is free, which makes it a convenient addition to any day spent sightseeing in the capital.

When should you visit?

Casa del Carnaval is open every day of the week, from 10:00 to 18:30, so it can be visited at any time of year. It is especially worthwhile for travelers who miss the Carnival itself, which usually takes place in February — the museum lets you experience the festival's atmosphere, history and craft during the rest of the year too. Note that at the time of writing the building is undergoing a renovation funded by the EU's Next Generation program, intended to turn Casa del Carnaval into a modern, immersive museum split into two areas: "Carnaval Vivo" (Living Carnival), a display that changes with each year's edition, and "Carnaval Eterno" (Eternal Carnival), dedicated to the festival's history and symbolism. It is worth checking the current opening status before visiting, since renovation work may temporarily limit access to some rooms.

Frequently asked questions

Is admission to Casa del Carnaval free? Yes, entry is completely free, every day during opening hours.

How long does a visit take? Around 45 to 60 minutes is enough to see the costume exhibition, the interactive area and the video screenings.

Is the museum suitable for children? Yes, the interactive zone with costumes, masks, wigs and musical instruments to try out is designed with younger visitors and school groups in mind.

Can you still experience the Carnival if you're not in Tenerife in February? Casa del Carnaval is the best way to feel the festival's atmosphere outside carnival season — its costumes, symbols and video footage bring the event to life all year round.