La Rua: The Mardi Gras Parade

La Rua established itself in the 70s and 80s after the Franco dictatorship. It embodies the return of the popular festival to the street. Unlike the Gran Coso Apoteosis (more structured), it remains open to all: no compulsory registration for many participants. Tuesday mainly attracts chicharreros (residents of Santa Cruz), because many tourists leave at the start of the week.

The Rua has no official end: it continues until dawn with music, dancing and bars spilling onto the sidewalks.

Everyone. Put on a costume and join the flow. Approach comparsas during rehearsals or on site to join a group.