The south of Gran Canaria has officially begun the countdown to its biggest event. With its publication in the Official Gazette of the Province, the San Bartolomé de Tirajana City Council has opened the application period for businesses and community groups to request their space at the 2026 Maspalomas International Carnival, which this year celebrates spectacle with the theme of 'The Circus'.
The administrative process has established a strict schedule: from today, January 19th, until February 2nd, registration will be open for those wishing to manage the sales points. The offering is varied and aims to accommodate both businesses and associations, distributing the beverage stands in the parking lot next to the Yumbo Shopping Center, while food services and the popular food trucks will be concentrated in front of the Mini Golf course.
The city council has designed a points-based awarding system that rewards local ties and environmental commitment. Applicants with their tax domicile in the municipality and a minimum of three years' residency will have an advantage. However, sustainability will be a key factor; the exclusive use of returnable cups and biodegradable containers not only grants extra points but also becomes a binding commitment, the breach of which could result in the immediate closure of the stall.
Regarding costs, the administration has set fees ranging from €700 for the simplest mobile units to €2.000 for the largest beach bars. Of particular note is the category of Social Beach Bars, with a reduced fee of €1.000, exclusively for non-profit organizations that must swear that any profits will be reinvested in social projects for the community.
Safety and public order are also central to the regulations. The final concession holders, who will be selected by lottery in case of excess demand, must present liability insurance policies of up to €600.000. Furthermore, a rigorous sanctions regime is imposed, which expressly prohibits the subletting of stalls and requires the exclusive sale of products from official sponsors, ensuring that "the greatest spectacle in the south" maintains its organizational consistency and international prestige.
