Carnaval de Zafra

Introduction and local significance

The Carnaval de Zafra is taking place this year from 13 to 17 February 2026 in this town in the province of Badajoz, in the autonomous community of Extremadura. The squares and streets of this municipality host a wide range of activities combining fancy-dress parades, children's street processions and popular food gatherings. The main events take place in well-known urban locations such as the Plaza Grande, the Plaza del Alcázar and the various arcaded squares of the historic centre. The influx of visitors drawn by its original ideas makes these winter days a highlight of the local festive calendar.

Historical origins and tradition

Among the most unique customs of this celebration is the traditional Bacanal de la Grasa, a festive event taking place in the arcaded squares that includes the procession of San Guarrín accompanied by music from the charanga Los Pintores, encouraging attendees to come dressed in country attire. Another deeply rooted date on the programme is the Desfile del Sepelio de la Bellota, an initiative organised by the Plena Inclusión Zafra centre that brings an inclusive and characteristic touch to the festivities. Likewise, the wake and the Entierro de la Sardina feature a dramatised street procession titled Contigo pan y sardinas, performed jointly by the comparsa Teatreando and the charanga Los Pintores themselves to bring the festival cycle to a close.

Programme and main events

The official programme of the Carnaval de Zafra brings together numerous events that liven up the town over its five official days. Among the most prominent events are the opening proclamation by Javier Romero Toro, known as Javi de Zafra, and the carnalcomedia performance by Exteatro at the Teatro de Zafra. The schedule also includes the Gran Desfile de Disfraces between the Plaza del Alcázar and the Plaza Grande, the Los Hombres Rana concert and the large public tasting of giant migas. The specific times of all these events and the rest of the musical performances can be consulted in detail in the official programme issued by the local town council.

Traditional festival food

Traditional cuisine takes centre stage during the Zafra carnival days thanks to several communal dishes created to be shared in the street.

• Migas: A dish popularised by being cooked in a giant cauldron on Carnival Monday in the Plaza Grande, following the setup of the necessary equipment.
• Chocolate: Hot drink served during the public chocolatada (hot chocolate gathering) that accompanies the migas, which includes a specific lactose-free option.
• Sardinas: Fish taking centre stage in the traditional public sardinada (sardine roast) held simultaneously with the closing event on Carnival Tuesday.

Visitor guide and where to stay

To attend the various events scheduled in the town centre of Zafra, it is worth bearing in mind that on busier days it is preferable to use public transport or leave your vehicle parked outside the historic centre. Individuals or groups wishing to take an active part in the Concurso del Desfile de Carnaval must complete their pre-registration by sending an email to registroentrada@zafra.es before Tuesday 10 February at 23:59. Afterwards, registered participants must collect their assigned ID number from the Universidad Popular de Zafra on Wednesday 11 February, between 11:00 and 14:00 or 18:00 and 20:00. For accommodation, it is best to book in advance in the town itself or in nearby places, and it is recommended to check the official programme before travelling to verify any last-minute changes.