What Carnaval La Paz is
Carnaval runs in the days before Lent, and in La Paz it takes over the waterfront Malecón with evening parades of floats and dance groups, live music stages, food stands and fair rides. It is the biggest party of the year in the state capital and draws people from all over Baja California Sur.
The city announces the program, the carnaval king and queen and the parade schedule a few weeks ahead. We had not seen 2027 dates when we checked, so treat our dates as an estimate built on the calendar: Ash Wednesday is February 10, 2027.
Is it worth the trip?
Yes, for groups and families who want a big, very Mexican street party. Parade nights are crowded and loud, the Malecón is packed, and hotels in La Paz book up. If crowds aren't your thing, visit La Paz on another weekend for the beaches instead.
Getting there from Cabo San Lucas
La Paz is roughly 2 to 2.5 hours north of Cabo San Lucas by car, via Todos Santos on Highway 19. Parades run into the night, so staying over in La Paz is safer than driving back in the dark. Pair it with a morning trip to swim with whale sharks in La Paz, which is in season in February, or break the drive with a stop on our Todos Santos day trip.
- Park well away from the Malecón; streets close for parades.
- Bring cash for food stands and rides.
- Check the official program for parade nights before you commit to the drive.
Where to stay and eat
Hotels on or near the Malecón book up for Carnaval weekend, so reserve early or stay a few blocks inland and walk. The Malecón stretches along the bay, so wear comfortable shoes. Food stands along the route are part of the fun; bring cash. In the daytime, La Paz beaches like Balandra are a short drive from the city and much calmer than the Malecón at night. February is dry and mild, with cool evenings.