The comparsas form the dancing and rhythmic heart of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival. They bring Brazilian energy to the parade, with collective choreography and costumes that captivate the eye during the Gran Coso Apoteosis.
A comparsa brings together between 80 and 200 people (dancers, percussionists and choreographers). They perform synchronized choreography to batucada, salsa or merengue rhythms. In Gran Coso, these groups occupy the most space and wear the most elaborate outfits, often with feathers, sequins and light structures that move to the rhythm of their footsteps.
They are distinguished from murgas (more vocal and satirical) by their focus on dance and visuals. They represent neighborhoods, associations or sponsors and embody the participatory and competitive dimension of carnival.
An official jury evaluates the performances according to precise criteria: originality and precision of the choreography, collective synchronization, quality and coherence of the costumes, as well as the energy transmitted to the audience. There are adult and child categories. The route includes eliminations, semi-finals and finals, mainly at the Recinto Ferial in January and early February 2027.
In 2027, the comparsas competition is confirmed for February 13 by Santa Cruz City Council. The finale culminates in the Gran Coso Apoteosis, confirmed for February 23.
Each edition imposes an overall theme. The costumes are designed by local workshops several months in advance. A complete set costs between €300 and €800 per participant, depending on the materials (imported ostrich feathers, sequins, fiberglass frames or casters for heavy pieces). Some elements weigh several kilos but are designed to allow several hours of dancing without major discomfort.
You'll see bright colors that reflect spotlight light, textures that rustle with movement, and the faint smell of fresh paint or new fabric during rehearsals.
Rehearsals begin in September/October 2026 for the 2027 edition, with 2 to 4 sessions per week. The intensity increases in January: sessions lasting several hours in the evening, often in parking lots or designated squares. The dancers manage muscular fatigue and collective coordination, with a soundscape of percussion that carries far into the neighborhoods.
The Gran Coso Apoteosis represents their apotheosis, before the costumes are put away until the following year.
Attend the competitions at the Recinto Ferial (paid tickets or carnival pass). Some rehearsals open to the public take place in January, especially on weekends. Follow the groups' Instagram pages for announcements.
- Tenerife Carnival: complete program and advice for 2027
- Rua Carnaval: the popular parade where the comparsas also dance
- Gran Coso Apoteosis: the grand final parade of comparsas
- Recinto Ferial and Gran Coso route (Avenida Anaga and Santa Cruz center)
- Competition: confirmed for February 13, 2027; Gran Coso confirmed for February 23, 2027 (exact dates on carnavaldetenerife.com)
- Competition tickets: around €10-25; Gran Coso often accessible free of charge on the public route
- Transport: guaguas lines 1, 2, 914 to Santa Cruz; limited traffic during events
- Costume: not obligatory for spectators, but welcome to join the atmosphere