The Galician Carnival, or entroido as it is known in Galicia, is one of the region’s most deeply rooted celebrations. It is a unique festival that blends history, identity, and fun, and in some parts of the region it lasts for several weeks, while in most cities it lasts barely a weekend.
In Ourense, this festival reaches its peak in three towns that make up the famous Magic Triangle: Xinzo de Limia, designated a Festival of International Tourist Interest, and Verín and Viana do Bolo, both recognized as Festivals of National Tourist Interest. Popular tradition traces its origins to ancient pre-Roman agricultural and livestock rites, as well as Celtic traditions.
A perfect setting to let loose with carefree costumes and that festive alter ego that emerges only once a year.
The Entroido of Xinzo de Limia
The Entroido of Xinzo is the longest in all of Galicia and Europe. It takes place over five consecutive Sundays, from January 24 to February 22. Its main characters are the pantallas, figures wearing masks with demonic faces and horns, dressed in white shirts and breeches, a cape, a red sash with cowbells, and black gaiters. In their hands, they carry two inflated cow bladders, with which they roam the streets, entertaining and teasing locals and visitors alike.
The festivities begin with the unique Domingo Fareleiro (January 25), when the town is blanketed in white after a flour-throwing ceremony. This custom is linked to rituals of purification and fertility.
This is followed by the Colgamento do Meco (January 31), a straw effigy caricaturing current public figures. Later, Domingo Corredoiro (February 8) takes center stage, featuring parades of pantallas that herald the main festivities.
The festivities reach their peak between February 13 and 17, with brass bands, nonstop music, and the Grand Carnival Tuesday Parade. The finale comes with the Burial of the Sardine (February 18), which also features a procession and a prior reading of the will, as tradition dictates; and Piñata Sunday (February 22), when the little ones enjoy sweets.
Verín Carnival
Verín celebrates its carnival from February 5 to 18, with the cigarrón as the central figure. This traditional character is distinguished by his hand-painted wooden mask, topped with a miter decorated with animals or plant motifs.
The festival begins with the Night of the Compadres (February 5), when the Maragato—a rag and straw doll associated with the role of the mule driver—is judged. The first Saturday is Capuchón Day (February 7), the popular name for the cigarrones.
Corredoiro Sunday (February 8) is another must-see, featuring the first morning gathering of cigarrones who will greet the neighbors after Mass. Comadres Thursday (February 12) will stand out, as usual, for the Procession’s Descent at midnight and the sound of the Marbella orchestra in the early hours of the morning.
The big weekend will culminate with Domingo Gordo (February 14), which will host the Grand Parade of Floats, Dance Troupes, Masks, and Cigarróns. The festivities will conclude with a Monday dedicated to children, a Tuesday marked by a final parade of floats, and Ash Wednesday with the Burial of the Sardine.
Viana do Bolo Carnival
The festivities in Viana do Bolo run from January 31 through February 18. The schedule distinguishes between Compadres Thursday (February 5), when the lardeiro—dolls made from old clothes—is hung up, and Comadres Thursday (February 12), when the lardeira is hung up. Saturday the 7th is dedicated to the parade groups, and during the second week of February, the town will be enlivened by the music of brass bands.
Domingo Gordo (February 15) will feature the parade of fulións, boteiros, and floats, one of the most spectacular moments. The burning of the lardeiros and the Burial of the Sardine will bring the celebration to a close.
Whichever Entroido you choose, we look forward to welcoming you at our Hotel Cardenal Quevedo in Ourense.
