What are the dates for the Mindelo Carnival in 2026?

Hi there,

I’m trying to find out the dates for the best parades at the Mindelo Carnival in 2026, but I’m having trouble figuring it out. When I search for "Mindelo Carnival 2026," I get different dates and no clear schedule. I’ve found the parade on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and the one on Sunday, February 22, with the grotesque makeup, which seem the most interesting. On the other hand, some say the São Nicolau Carnival is more authentic than Mindelo’s. If you’ve experienced this firsthand—not just theoretically but actually been there—I’d love to hear your practical tips.

Thanks in advance!

Elisabeth

Hi there, The exact schedule always comes out at the last minute, but generally, the carnival starts the week before with parades first from daycare centers/kindergartens, then schools or sports groups, and the famous Maandigas. Then, on Monday evening (the night before Mardi Gras), there’s usually the parade of a big group: Escola Samba Tropical. And the main parade is always on Mardi Gras (so definitely February 17, 2026), wrapping up the carnival week with the big groups, followed by the award ceremony the next day, Wednesday. So I’m a bit surprised to hear about a parade on the 22nd. Where did you find that info?

Oh, and the 2026 carnival was up in the air because there were disagreements between the organizers, group leaders, and the city hall... so it’s all still being debated. ;O)

I don’t know much about the São Nicolau carnival—it’s probably smaller but maybe a bit more authentic and intimate as a result... Marie

Hi Elisabeth, I understand your dilemma: the dates for Carnival in Mindelo aren’t always well communicated in advance, especially the side events! In 2026, Mardi Gras falls on February 17, so the big samba school parade will likely take place that day. The previous Sunday, with the famous "grotesque face paint" (the Mandingas group, a must-see moment), is just as vibrant—more "local," almost tribal in its energy.

I was lucky enough to experience it firsthand—if you’d like a more sensory than practical glimpse, I shared my impressions in this article about the Mindelo Carnival. And a special feature on the Mandingas.

As for São Nicolau, yes, its Carnival is smaller, but it’s said to be more "authentic" since it’s still not very touristy. Mindelo remains, in my opinion, a great immersion... it all depends on the kind of energy you’re looking for.

Hi there, The exact schedule always comes out at the last minute, but generally, the carnival starts the week before, with parades first from daycare centers/kindergartens, then schools or sports groups, and the famous Maandigas. Then, on Monday evening (the night before Mardi Gras), there’s usually the parade of a big group: Escola Samba Tropical. And the main parade is always on Mardi Gras (so definitely February 17, 2026), wrapping up the carnival week with the big groups, and the awards are handed out the next day, Wednesday. So I’m a bit surprised about a parade on the 22nd. But who knows? Where did you find that info? Oh, and the 2026 carnival was up in the air because there are disagreements between the organizers, group leaders, and the city hall... so it’s all being debated. ;O) I don’t know much about the one in Sao Nicolau—it’s probably smaller but maybe a bit more authentic and intimate as a result... Marie

Hi again, and thanks for your message. When I check the Mindelo Carnival website, they say the Mandingas parade in black with grotesque masks will take place on February 22. Someone else told me this parade usually happens the Sunday before Mardi Gras, but February 22 falls on the Sunday *after* Mardi Gras. So I’m a bit confused. Do you know anything about this?

Thanks again in advance. Elisabeth

Hi there, It does seem to be what’s announced on the websites... but it’s not the usual timing... maybe they’ve changed the format, which is possible. I’ll trust the site for now. I don’t know any more than that. Marie