It’s the highlight of the year for Los Gigantes, the biggest party, and everyone is invited. The theme this year is Latino music, a great excuse for infectious music, vibrant costumes and late night dancing. From the opening gala to the traditional burial of the sardine, there’s something for everyone, and the fireworks are always spectacular.

Election of the Carnaval Queen and Gala: Thursday 17th March
Time: 9pm
Location: Plaza Buganvilla

Children’s Parade and Grand Ball: Saturday 19th March
Time: From 5pm
Location: Plaza Buganvilla

Closing Parade: Coso Apoteosis followed by masked ball takes place on Sunday 20th March
Time: From 5pm
Location: From La Pescadora roundabout to Plaza Buganvilla.

Burial of the Sardine followed by Widows’ Ball: Monday 21st March
Time: 9pm

Like a giant washing powder advert, Los Gigantes will be gleaming white on Sunday 13 March as they stage the Fiesta Blanca Latina. It’s an all day extravaganza of music and dance based around the church plaza from 11 am to 11 pm and everyone is invited to attend and wear as much white as possible.

As the name suggests, the music will have a distinct Latin feel which should encourage everyone to shake off their inhibitions and dance. There’s something for everyone including a display of classic cars and more bands than you can shake a maraca at. The line up is Maikel Jimenez, the Corinto Band, and from the island of La Palma Chango. That last band may hint at some of the fun and games to come, La Palma has just celebrated its annual Los Indianos festival where white also dominates and flour is liberally sprinkled around to add to the white theme.

All this is in advance of the main Los Gigantes Carnaval which runs from 17 to 21 March so keep your dancing shoes at the ready, full details of that to follow.