¿Qué es el entroido en Galicia?

El Entroido en Galicia es una de las festividades más emblemáticas y originales de la región. Se trata de una celebración ancestral que combina tradición, máscaras, gastronomía y un ambiente festivo que envuelve a ciudades y pueblos enteros. Con un carácter propio y distinto a otros carnavales de España, el Entroido es una expresión cultural única que merece ser descubierta y disfrutada.

¿Cuál es el origen del entroido en Galicia?

Para entender qué es el Entroido en Galicia, es necesario remontarse a tiempos antiguos. Su origen está vinculado a rituales paganos que marcaban el fin del invierno y la llegada de la primavera. Con la influencia del cristianismo, la festividad se adaptó al calendario religioso y pasó a celebrarse en los días previos a la Cuaresma, permitiendo a la gente disfrutar de la comida y la fiesta antes del periodo de ayuno y abstinencia. El término "Entroido" proviene del latín "introitus", que significa entrada, haciendo referencia al inicio de la Cuaresma

¿Dónde se celebran los entroidos de Galicia más representativos?

Verín Laza Xinzo de Limia Maceda Cobres Vigo y A Coruña

¿Cuáles son las tradiciones populares del entroido de Galicia?

Las "fariñadas": En algunas zonas, la gente se lanza harina entre sí como símbolo de purificación y diversión. Los "testamentos": En muchos pueblos se leen "testamentos" satíricos en los que se hace humor sobre personajes locales. El entierro de la sardina: Para cerrar la celebración, se realiza un desfile en el que se representa el funeral de una sardina, simbolizando el fin de la fiesta y el inicio de la Cuaresma.

What is Entroido in Galicia: an original carnival

Published on

February 24, 2025

Carnival in Galicia is one of the most emblematic and original from the region. It is an ancestral celebration that combines tradition, masks, gastronomy and a festive atmosphere that envelops entire cities and towns. With a unique character distinct from other carnivals in Spain, the Entroido is a unique cultural expression that deserves to be discovered and enjoyed.

Origin and meaning of Entroido

To understand what Entroido is in Galicia, it's necessary to go back to ancient times. Its origin is linked to Pagan rituals that marked the end of winter and the arrival of spring. With the influence of Christianity, the festival was adapted to the religious calendar and It began to be celebrated in the days before Lent., allowing people to enjoy food and festivities before a period of fasting and abstinence.

The term «Entroido» comes from the Latin«Entrance«, which means entrance, referring to the beginning of Lent. Over time, the celebration has evolved, but maintains its essence of irreverence and mockery, with parades, Costumes y unique characters that have been passed down from generation to generation.

The most representative Entroidos in Galicia

Each Galician locality has its own way of celebrating the Entroido, but some stand out for their tradition and uniqueness. Among the most famous Entroidos in Galicia, we find:

Verín

Its most iconic figure is the «Grasshopper«, a character with wooden mask, colorful costume, and a belt of large bells that announces its arrival with leaps and bounds.

Laz

One of the oldest Entroidos, where the «Peliqueiros»They walk the streets with their characteristic masks and They whip the attendees with their whips.

The Carnival of Xinzo de Limia

With The longest Carnival in Spain, the celebration lasts for several weeks, with parades and floats filling the streets with joy.

Maceda

Stands out for the figure of the «Fellos«masked characters who roam the town, keeping the essence of traditional carnival.

Cobres Carnival

Famous for its «Ladies and Gentlemen, who dress in elegant suits and perform traditional dances.

Carnivals in Galicia: Vigo and A Coruña

These cities also offer grand celebrations with massive parades and costume contests.

Typical Carnival Gastronomy

As in every great Galician festival, the gastronomy plays a fundamental role in Carnival. During these dates, it is common to enjoy traditional dishes such as:

Galician-style pork shoulder with turnip greensA classic of Galician cuisine that is enjoyed during these celebrations.
Carnival earsA fried pastry in the shape of an ear, crispy and sprinkled with sugar.
Filloas: Similar to crepes, but made according to a traditional Galician recipe.
Sausages in WineA tasty appetizer that accompanies festive gatherings.
BicaA fluffy cake typical of the Ourense region, ideal for accompanying with coffee.

If you don't know Where to eat in Vigo, Don't hesitate, swing by Vialia Vigo, where you'll find a wide variety, even during Carnival.

Carnival and its popular traditions

In addition to parades and gastronomy, Entroido in Galicia is full of peculiar traditions and customs. Some of the most notable include:

The «fariñadas»In some areas, people throw flour at each other as a symbol of purification and fun.
The «wills»In many towns, satirical «wills» are read, which make fun of local characters.
The Burial of the SardineTo conclude the celebration, a parade is held representing the funeral of a sardine, symbolizing the end of the festival and the beginning of Lent.

Experience Carnival at Vialia Vigo

If you're in Vigo during Carnival, don't hesitate to join the celebration. At Vialia Vigo, you'll find Costumes, accessories, and everything you need to experience the festival in the best atmosphere. Plus, you can enjoy traditional cuisine at our restaurants and coffee shops, as well as events special for the whole family.

Entroido is a festival that is experienced with Passion and joy. Whether in a small town or a big city, fun is guaranteed with its mix of tradition, music, and gastronomy.

Discover what Entroido is in Galicia and immerse yourself in one of the region's most vibrant and traditional festivities. Come to Vialia Vigo and get ready to enjoy this unique carnival with everything you need at your fingertips.