Head for the former island capital of Teguise tonight to enjoy a taste of traditional Carnaval celebrations from around the world.

Carnaval is celebrated in most towns and resorts across Lanzarote and the Canaries during February and March but one of the most authentic of these events takes place in Teguise tonight from 20.00 in the Plaza de la Constitucion.

Folklore groups from across the Canary Islands, as well as from further flung locations such as Portugal and Puerto Rico, will be assembling in the picturesque main square in Teguise to pay tribute to the true traditions of Carnaval.

Chief amongst the local folklore groups are Los Diabletes, or little devils, whose roots date back as far as the 15th Century, blending the pagan beliefs and superstitions of the island’s original Guanche inhabitants with African slave influences and more recent Christian Castillian traditions.

Together these influences combine to create a colourful celebration of fertility, originally represented in the form of a goat, but which has since mutated over time into a bull. And which is most evident today in their garish masks, whilst their colourful costumes were originally made from tanned goat skins.

They will be performing their Dance of the Diabletes – once the preserve of local shepherds on high days and holidays such as New Years. Alongside a whole raft of equally vivid folklore groups from other islands and locations, such as the Los Vejigantes from Puerto Rico and Los Caretos de Podence from Portugal (pictured).

The event runs from 20.00 to 23.00 and entrance is free of charge.