Arrivo

Tonight is the main parade of the Carnaval in Vilanova - Arrivo, which celebrates the arrival of the king of the Carnaval - Carnestoltes.

The parade is led by the Diablos of Vilanova with the Dracs, and fireworks galore. They are followed by a great many floats and dancing groups all put forward by the neighbourhoods and associations around the town.

Vilanova Carnaval has a long history of critiquing local and national events and figures. Unlike the Sitges Carnaval which is a Rio style fluff and feathers affair the Vilanova parade is much more down to earth, and by the people, for the people - anyone is welcome to join in, and many who are not part of the main parade will be strolling the streets in fancy dress.

The parade ends up in the plaça de la Vila, where the king makes a speech, part of which is polítics and satire and also about the Carnaval itself. Each year a different entity/ association takes on the main focus of the events.

So tonight, wrap up warm and join all the other vilanovins celebrating the arrival of our Carnaval king.

Photos from previous years follow...