Why is Carnival celebrated?
Carnival has ancient origins and has been celebrated in different cultures around the world for centuries. Traditionally, this festival marks the end of winter and the arrival of spring. It is considered a time to let go of all social and moral restrictions before the start of Lent, a period of fasting and penance in the Christian tradition.
During Carnival, people wear masks and costumes to hide their social identity and allow otherwise unacceptable behavior. This allows them to express themselves freely, have fun and forget about everyday worries.
Carnival also offers the opportunity to celebrate local culture through parades, traditional music, folk dances and culinary specialties typical of the region.
City
|
Province
|
Village
|
Date 2024
|
Tourist forecast
|
How to celebrate
|
Duration
|
Because it's worth seeing
|
Rio de Janeiro
|
Rio de Janeiro
|
Brazil
|
February 10-14
|
2 millions
|
Parades of allegorical floats, samba music, elaborate costumes
|
4 days
|
Festive and colorful atmosphere, one of the most famous carnivals in the world
|
Santa Cruz of Tenerife
|
Tenerife
|
Spain
|
February 2-12
|
1 million
|
Parades of "comparsas", Latin music, imaginative costumes
|
10 days
|
Day and night shows, warm and welcoming climate
|
Venice
|
Veneto
|
Italy
|
February 11-21
|
500.000
|
Elegant masks, costume balls, romantic atmosphere
|
10 days
|
Historical and cultural charm, uniqueness of customs and canals
|
Barranquilla
|
Atlantic
|
Colombia
|
February 17-21
|
1.5 million
|
Parades of folk groups, Caribbean music, sensual dances
|
4 days
|
Energetic and engaging Carnival, full of local culture
|
New Orleans
|
Louisiana
|
United States
|
February 6-14
|
1.5 million
|
"Krewes" parades, jazz music, necklace and jewelery throwing
|
9 days
|
Unique and transgressive atmosphere, Mardi Gras famous all over the world
|
Cologne
|
North Rhine-Westphalia
|
Germany
|
February 16-21
|
1.5 million
|
Street party with music, dancing and carnival costumes
|
6 days
|
Fun and playful carnival, involving the whole city
|
Binche
|
Hainaut
|
Belgium
|
February 11-13
|
10.000
|
"Gilles" parades with wax masks and colorful dresses
|
Three days
|
Unique and evocative tradition, UNESCO intangible heritage
|
Nice
|
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
|
France
|
February 10-26
|
200.000
|
Parades of allegorical floats, flower battles, music and shows
|
16 days
|
Elegant and refined Carnival, festive and fun atmosphere
|
Viareggio
|
Tuscany
|
Italy
|
February 4-12
|
200.000
|
Parades of allegorical papier-mâché floats, political and social satire
|
9 days
|
Historic carnival famous for the quality of the allegorical floats
|
Notting Hill
|
London
|
United Kingdom
|
August 25-26
|
2 millions
|
Street party with Caribbean music, colorful costumes and ethnic food
|
2 days
|
Multicultural and lively carnival, celebration of diversity
|
Carnival is a universal holiday that is celebrated in many countries around the world with great enthusiasm and joy. The best cities to celebrate Carnival offer unique and unforgettable experiences, immersing you in local traditions and allowing you to experience a colorful and engaging celebration.
Whether you choose the vibrant Rio de Janeiro Carnival or the elegance of the Venice Carnival, you are sure to have an unforgettable time immersed in the festive atmosphere surrounding this traditional celebration.
Prepare your best costume, put on a mask and let yourself be carried away by the magic of Carnival in the best cities in the world!