by Maria
In Spain, there are not many long periods without fiestas. Carnival in Spain in late February is a very popular celebration and it boasts many different regional variations. In every city, small town or village you could find as you walk through the street, parades and fancy dress events for sure. Each city and region of Spain has a different style of carnival with its own individual atmosphere and ambiance, but they all have a devotion to having a good time, most involving music and dancing while you are in a costume. The Spaniards have organized carnivals since medieval times, although General Franco outlawed these events for 40 years, starting in 1938, during his dictatorship. Perhaps the most intensely celebrated Carnival event in Spain likely takes place in southern Spain (Cadiz) and the Canary Islands (Tenerife). These two festivities in Cádiz and Tenerife, and the Águilas carnival, in the Murcia region, have all been declared to be of International Tourist Interest.