Luanco Summer Carnival

The Carnaval de Verano de Luanco is one of the most fun oddities on the Asturian calendar: an antroxu celebrated in the middle of August, right by the beach. According to local chronicles, it was born spontaneously about two decades ago, when a group of vacationers decided to dress up for fun; the success was such that the town adopted it, and today it is the big night of the summer in Gozón, held on the eve of the Assumption.

On Thursday, August 13, the children’s antroxu is celebrated, with a gymkhana and costume contest at El Reloj: children parade from the plaza of the church of Santa María to the Torre del Reloj, where a jury awards the best individual and group costumes (prior registration is required). On the night of Friday, August 14, the big moment arrives: a parade of costumes and floats through the old town, brass bands, orchestras, and DJs in the streets of the center, and a party that lasts until dawn in the town’s venues. The restaurants of Luanco prepare themed menus in accordance with the year’s theme.

Gastronomy. Luanco is a port and it shows: fresh fish and seafood, squid, and cider as an essential accompaniment.

Practical tips. A costume is practically mandatory if you want to fit in; arrive early because Luanco gets crowded and parking is complicated (use the parking lots on the outskirts). Consult the rules for the children’s contest at the Ayuntamiento de Gozón and check the final program a few days before, as it is not published until the summer.