Ukrainian Malanka will be part of the Barcelona carnival for the first time
For the first time in history, Ukrainian Malanka will be part of Barcelona's official city carnival — Carnaval 2026. The Ukrainian community of the city will join the traditional celebration, presenting an authentic folk performance to local residents and guests.
This was announced on the event's Facebook page. The Ukrainian delegation is scheduled to participate on 14 February. The central theme of the performance will be the Malanka ritual — a colourful, humorous and symbolic event that, in folk tradition, personifies the arrival of spring and the anticipation of renewal.
The Ukrainian Centre in Barcelona is organising the participation. Currently, participants are being recruited who are ready to transform themselves into traditional Malanka characters, including Malanka, Vasyl, Solokha, Cossacks, devils and a goat. Training is provided for future participants — master classes on mask making and choreography classes, which are necessary for a joint performance during the carnival parade.
The Ukrainian Centre notes that participation in the carnival is an opportunity not only to join a large international celebration, but also to create a Ukrainian cultural space in the heart of Barcelona.
The number of places in the Ukrainian group is limited by the requirements of the carnival organisers. Those wishing to join must register via a special Telegram channel, after which they will be contacted by representatives of the organising committee. The route of the festive parade will be announced later.
Ukrainian Malanka, Barcelona, Carnival 2026, Ukrainian community abroad, Ukrainian traditions, culture, diaspora
