Entierro de la Sardina / Burial of the Sardine

The Entierro de la Sardina is the bizarre fish-burying Spanish festival that concludes the carnival that takes place the week before Lent.

Most of the big carnivals in Spain end with an Entierro de la Sardina. The carnival is one of the most famous festivals of Castilla y León and is celebrated in the village of Toro, in Zamora. It has been declared of touristic interest in Castilla y León.

Right from the start on the Friday night until Entierro de la Sardina (the burial of the sardine), the sound of the street bands can be heard singing criticisms of current politics and society.

The traditional wedding, on Domingo Gordo, Fat Sunday, is a unique custom not to be seen anywhere else in Spain.

The men and women of the town dress up in typical costumes to simulate the marriage between Don Carnal and Doña Cuaresma.

The Monday is dedicated to the children of the village, and the adults rejoin the celebrations on Martes de Carnaval, Carnival Tuesday, when there is an impressive parade full of lights and colours, a spectacular show that passes through the streets of the village.

Miércoles de Ceniza, Ash Wednesday brings the comical funeral procession, the Burial of the Sardine, and a great feast of sardines with which to bid farewell to Don Carnal until the following year.

Where to Stay

If you are going to Zamora, check for hotel deals in the town

Accommodation is limited in the area so you might consider staying elsewhere and traveling to Zamora on the day. Check for great deals on hotel accommodation in Spain or budget hostel accommodation in the area

Getting There

Book a flight to any major Spanish airport

Then you might want to hire a car, book a train ticket or book a bus ticket to take you to your final destination