Carnaval de Ólvega

Introduction and local significance

The Carnaval de Ólvega, celebrated in the province of Soria, has its official dates scheduled from 13 to 15 February 2026. Prior to this, on 12 February, various events take place leading up to the main festive days. The organisation of these celebrations utilises several municipal venues, including Plaza de España, the Polideportivo, the Centro Social, and the facilities of La Juve. This calendar of events allows for a series of activities that include competitions, parades, traditional acts, and specific gastronomic offerings for the carnival period. Visiting the town during these days enables travellers to participate in the programme planned by local entities.

Historical origins and tradition

The festive programme preserves customs that define the rites of Carnaval de Ólvega. Jueves Lardero is identified as the traditional start, centred around the distribution of chorizo sandwiches. This act allows participants, including members of the association La Juve, to gather in the Parque Infantil deportivo.

The closure of the festivities revolves around the Gran Entierro de la Sardina. For this act, there is a specific dress code: participants must wear strict mourning attire. The route of the burial requires attendees to carry whistles and drums, elements that mark the sound of the procession. Additionally, a competition for red riding hood scarves with sardine motifs is held, a practice that integrates artisanal elements with the theme of the festive closure.

Programme and main events

The programme of Carnaval de Ólvega encompasses various types of events, from institutional acts to musical and leisure proposals. Among the highlights is the opening speech, delivered by Matalasviejas in Plaza de España, which inaugurates the public agenda. The proposal includes playful competitions, such as face painting and crazy hats, as well as a music and dance offering featuring DJs at the Centro Social.

Parades hold a significant place in the schedule, with specific events for children, often accompanied by bands like La Toscaina in the polideportivo, and adult parades. These days are completed with the award ceremony for the adult parade, which includes the distribution of moscatel. The cycle concludes with the Gran Entierro de la Sardina, where the final activities take place. For a detailed list of days, times, and locations for each of these acts in the current edition, please refer to the official programme available at the beginning of this document, as the organisation may make changes during the festive days.

Traditional festival food

During the carnival, the culinary offering is integrated into the agenda, allowing attendees to enjoy typical products at key moments of the celebration:

• Bocadillos de chorizo: This is the food distributed during Jueves Lardero. They are handed out in the Parque Infantil deportivo as part of the inaugural activity.
• Montaditos de sardina: These are offered to the public after the Gran Entierro de la Sardina.
• Chocolatada popular: This is served after the conclusion of the burial activities, acting as the gastronomic closure of the festival.
• Moscatel: This drink is distributed during the award ceremony of the adult parade, held on Saturday night in Plaza de España.

Visitor guide and where to stay

The logistics of the events centre around Plaza de España and other municipal facilities. In case of adverse weather conditions, outdoor events will be moved to the Centro Social. Prizes obtained in the various competitions must be redeemed at local establishments before 31 May 2026.

Regarding accommodation, it is advisable to make reservations in advance, either in the urban centre of Ólvega or in nearby towns, which facilitates attending the evening events. During peak days, it is preferable to use public transport or park outside the centre to avoid crowds. Before travelling, it is essential to verify the official information, as schedules and events may vary, and it is wise to stay informed about any adjustments from the organisation.