Carnival

February 28 - March 5, Friday – Wednesday

Carnival
© ShutterStock
Carnival is a festive season that occurs before Lent, typically involving public celebrations, parades, street parties, and a wide variety of cultural events. It is particularly popular in countries with a strong Christian tradition and is often celebrated with colorful costumes, music, and dancing.

Historical Origins
The origins of Carnival can be traced back to ancient Roman and pagan festivals, such as Saturnalia and Lupercalia, which celebrated the arrival of spring. Over time, these traditions were adopted by Christianity and merged with pre-Lenten festivities.

When is Carnival Celebrated?
Carnival does not have a fixed date because it is tied to the Christian liturgical calendar. It typically begins after Epiphany (January 6) and culminates on Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras), the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of Lent.

Famous Carnival Celebrations Around the World
1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil:
- Known for its vibrant samba parades and grand costume designs.
- Features a competition among samba schools in the Sambadrome.
2. Venice, Italy:
- Famous for its elegant masquerade balls and intricate, artistic masks.
- Celebrates a more traditional and refined Carnival experience.
3. New Orleans, USA (Mardi Gras):
- Known for its colorful floats, bead-throwing traditions, and jazz music.
- Includes a fusion of French, African, and American cultures.
4. Trinidad and Tobago:
- Features calypso and soca music, as well as elaborate costumes.
- Known for the energetic and lively "Carnival Monday and Tuesday" street events.
5. Cologne, Germany:
- Celebrated with parades, comedic performances, and costumed revelers.
- Known as the "Fifth Season" and referred to locally as "Karneval."

Customs and Traditions
- Costumes: Participants often wear vibrant and extravagant costumes, sometimes with masks, to embody themes of fantasy, mythology, or satire.
- Music and Dance: Carnival celebrations showcase regional music styles, such as samba, calypso, or brass band performances, accompanied by energetic dancing.
- Food and Drink: Carnival often features indulgent foods and drinks, as it precedes Lent, a period of fasting and self-discipline.

Cultural Significance
Carnival reflects the cultural identity and artistic creativity of the communities that celebrate it. It offers participants and spectators a chance to escape the toils of daily life and enjoy a spirit of unity, freedom, and joy.

Carnival

Carnival – days left: 30. Create Countdown to Event

Carnival in other years

Carnival in other countries

This site uses cookies. By continuing to use this website, you agree to our policies regarding the use of cookies.