One of Spain 's wildest carnivals, the fishing village of Sitges see also hotels Sitges. Takes place in February.

Recognised as one of Spain's wildest celebrations, the fishing village of Sitges comes alive when it welcomes thousands of people to its annual carnival. Filled with food, parties, dancing and outrageous costumes, it is regarded as one of the most spectacular events of the Catalan calendar. The party begins on the Thursday before Lent, with the arrival of the potbellied King of the Carnestoltes (the name comes from a Latin phrase, meaning 'forbidden meat') – this is a masked personification that signifies the spirit of the carnival. Fancy dress, feathers, sequins, and plenty of skin make this carnival an electrifying event.

The Church of Sant Bartomeu Sitges

The grand parade has over 3,000 revellers and 40 floats. Sitges has a large gay community, but this is not a particularly gay carnival. However, amazing and glamorous drag shows can be found, and both the straight and gay press regard the Sitges carnival as a wild party. Its most popular days see the streets of this old fishing village packed with around 250,000 revellers.

The Sitges carnival has something for everyone – highlights of the festival include Jueves Lardero (Fatty Thursday), with a gigantic celebration of local dishes. There's more to do than eat, though, with parades aplenty happening.

The busiest days are Sunday and Tuesday, when the local carnival guilds parade down the Rua del Extermini in colourful, decorated carriages, while revellers sport some amazing outfits.

It's all over by Ash Wednesday, when an effigy of Carnestoltes goes up in flames and revellers celebrate the mock burial of the sardine.