Cadiz Carnival Poster 2026 by Raquel Jove
Cadiz Carnival Poster 2026
The story behind the 2026 Cádiz Carnival poster centers on a direct reaction to the disaster of the Cadiz Carnival 2025 Poster competition. For decades, Cádiz chose its official poster through an open contest where the public voted on jury-selected finalists. That system collapsed when several leading entries were disqualified after organizers discovered heavy, uncredited generative AI usage alongside outright plagiarism of existing illustrations and vintage engravings. With the contest discredited, the Ayuntamiento canceled the public vote entirely and declared the selection null and void.
To permanently prevent another AI or plagiarism scandal, the city council scrapped the open competition and public voting model for 2026. Instead, they switched to a direct commission, hiring San Fernando illustrator and graphic designer Raquel Jove for a flat fee of €6,000 to design the official artwork.
What is the Carnival Poster 2026 about?
Jove created a vibrant, highly detailed piece titled "Tipo, tipo", set in a bustling Plaza de la Catedral. The artwork functions as a carnival-themed "Where's Waldo?", featuring over 60 hand-drawn characters that capture the chaotic spirit of the street festival. It blends caricatures of iconic local figures—including 2026 pregonero Manu Sánchez—with everyday revelers, chirigotas, and humorous street scenes, inviting observers to pause and search through the crowd for hidden Cádiz references.
Carnival is the biggest event in Cadiz's calendar, and the most important of its type on mainland Spain, just as the Feria is for Seville. People flood in from all over Spain, and beyond, to enjoy… More →
Are you planning your trip to the Carnival but feel nervous about actually speaking Spanish? We've created a special collection of carnival words, to add to the fun!
Obviously, the programme varies from year to year, but you can take this as a rough guide to what happens on which day of the Carnaval. Check local press and websites for up-to-date information.… More →
The singing competition (COAC, Concurso Official de Agrupaciones Carnavalescas) is the central event of the pre-Carnaval, with four types of groups taking part - chirigotas, choros, cuartetos and… More →
There are several types of singing groups and songs at the Carnaval. They perform both at the theatre in the official competition, and also on the street. All wear fancy dress.
Cádiz Carnival
Cádiz City
Carnivals in Andalucia
Festivals in Andalucia