From the colorful streets of Rio’s Carnival to the masked wonders of Venice, and the lively beats of Trinidad to Cologne’s fun parades, these festivals are more than just parties. They’re a celebration of culture, music, and joy. Each carnival has its own special magic, inviting you to dance, laugh, and be part of something extraordinary. Let’s take a trip around the globe and discover the best carnivals in the world!
The Best Carnival Festivals Around the World
Rio Carnival, Brazil
Attended by Bailey from Destinationless Travel
When: Friday, 9 February 2024 to Saturday, 17 February 2024
Where: Celebrations occur all across Brazil with the Samba competition held in the Sambadrome in Rio de Janeiro.
Age group: Kids under the age of 5 are not allowed in the Sambadrome. Carnival celebrations often involve lots of alcohol and it is not an overly kid-friendly event.
About: Rio’s Carnival in Brazil is an exciting time of the year. Over 4 days, a series of Samba competitions are held in Rio de Janeiro’s Sambadrome (a specially-built stadium suited for Samba parades.) However, Carnival celebrations outside of the Sambadrome start a month before Carnival and happen across Brazil in the form of parties, concerts, and “blocos” (or street parties and Samba parades.)
Why visit: Carnival is one of the biggest celebrations in the world and definitely a highlight of traveling to Brazil! Expect over 2 million people, extravagant costumes, carefully choreographed Samba performances, and tons of food and drinks.
New Orleans Mardi Gras, USA
Attended by Ketki of Dotted Globe
When: Tuesday, 13 February 2024
Where: New Orleans, USA
Age group: Suitable for all age groups, family-friendly, and kid-friendly celebrations.
About: The holiday of Mardi Gras is celebrated with great fanfare in the city of New Orleans. Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday in French and is the day before the Christian fasting season of Lent. Various parties and events are held on Mardi Gras Day to mark the last day that many can eat meat and rich foods.
Why visit: Mardi Gras celebrations begin about two weeks before the day of Mardi Gras and elaborate parades take place throughout the fortnight. Attending Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans is a fantastic experience. A variety of parades take place throughout the city. You can even check out the scene preparation behind this magnificent event at Mardi Gras World.
Each krewe has fantastic floats and costumed float members. The parades include music bands and dance groups. The Krewe members throw beads, toys, hats, souvenirs, and a variety of fun stuff at the crowd during the parades.
Note: The celebrations in the French Quarter are not suitable for children but the most popular parades are family-friendly and enjoyed by kids of all ages.
Expert Tip: Some of the other things to do during Mardi Gras in New Orleans include the dog parade, seeing the carnival decorations in the city, eating king cake, and attending masked balls. In the evening, can even enjoy a cruise on the Mississippi River.
Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
When: The festivities typically span February or March, adhering to the customary Carnival season. For 2024, the event is scheduled from January 12th to February 18th.
Where: The heart of the Carnival beats in Santa Cruz, the bustling capital of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain. Most of the action takes place in the city’s core, especially around the Plaza de España where the central stage is located.
Age group: This Carnival is a welcoming affair for all age groups, offering a family-friendly environment. While there are myriad activities suitable for the young and old alike, certain events in the evening might cater more to an adult audience.
About: Renowned for its dazzling costumes, energetic parades, and dynamic music, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife stands as the world’s second-largest Carnival celebration. The event features various groups like “comparsas” (dance troupes), “murgas” (groups performing satirical songs), and “rondallas” (music ensembles), creating a rich musical melange. A standout event is the “Gala for the Election of the Carnival Queen,” where imaginative and elaborate costumes are displayed in all their glory.
Why visit: The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a colorful and lively celebration, mixing Spanish and Canarian traditions. It’s a great chance to experience a classic carnival atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy bright costumes, and lively music, and get a real taste of local culture and fun.
Venice Carnival, Italy
When: The Venice Carnival usually takes place in February or early March. For 2024, the festivities are scheduled from Saturday, 27 January to Tuesday, 13 February.
Where: This enchanting event unfolds in Venice, Italy, with the city’s historic streets, canals, and squares, especially around St. Mark’s Square, transforming into stages for the carnival’s magic.
Age group: Venice Carnival is a family-friendly event suitable for all ages. The event’s ethereal atmosphere and artistic displays appeal to both children and adults, with various activities and performances catering to a wide range of interests.
About: The Venice Carnival is known for its beautiful masks and fancy costumes that add a touch of mystery and elegance. Venice turns into a lively stage for masked dances, parades, and shows, all part of a long-standing tradition in the city. One of the main attractions is the ‘Flight of the Angel,’ where a performer makes an exciting descent from a bell tower into St. Mark’s Square. There are also lots of boat parades on the Grand Canal, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Why visit: Attending the Venice Carnival is like stepping into a living fairy tale. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore Venetian culture and history through its world-famous mask tradition. The city’s already picturesque canals and ancient architecture provide a stunning backdrop for elegant costumes and vibrant events, offering a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Binche Carnival, Belgium
When: The Binche Carnival usually happens in February or March, right before Lent. In 2024, it’s set to take place from Sunday, 11 February to Tuesday, 13 February.
Where: This vibrant event is held in Binche, a small town in Belgium. The carnival mainly takes place in the town’s streets, where everyone gathers to celebrate.
Age group: The Binche Carnival is a fun event for all ages. It’s a family-friendly celebration where both kids and adults can enjoy the festive atmosphere.
About: The Binche Carnival is famous for its unique characters called ‘Gilles,’ who wear special costumes with colorful designs, large hats decorated with feathers, and wooden clogs. The Gilles dance through the streets, throwing oranges to the crowd as a symbol of good luck. The festival is full of lively music, drumming, and traditional dances, making it a special part of Belgian culture.
Why visit: Going to the Binche Carnival is a chance to see a one-of-a-kind celebration. It’s not just a parade; it’s a chance to be part of a tradition that has been around for centuries. Visitors can catch oranges, enjoy the music and dances, and feel the warm, welcoming spirit of the Binche community.
Cologne Carnival, Germany
When: The Cologne Carnival, also known as the “Fifth Season,” traditionally begins on 11 November at 11:11 a.m. However, the main festivities happen in the week leading up to Ash Wednesday, usually in February or March. In 2024, the peak celebrations are expected from Thursday, 8 February to Wednesday, 14 February.
Where: This lively event takes place in Cologne, Germany. The city’s streets, squares, and pubs become the heart of the carnival, with the center of activities around the Old Town and the famous Cologne Cathedral.
Age group: The Cologne Carnival is a family-friendly event, appealing to all ages. There are specific days, like Rose Monday, with parades particularly suitable for families and children. Other parts of the carnival, especially in the evenings in pubs and clubs, are more adult-oriented.
About: The Cologne Carnival is one of the largest street festivals in Europe. It’s known for its humorous and satirical parades, colorful costumes, and cheerful music. ‘Crazy Days’ marks the height of the festivities, with people dressing up, joining street parties, and watching parades. The highlight is the Rose Monday Parade, featuring elaborate floats, local music bands, and groups in fancy costumes, spreading joy throughout the city.
Why visit: Attending the Cologne Carnival offers a unique glimpse into German festive culture. It’s a perfect mix of fun, tradition, and local customs. You can enjoy the parades, laugh at the humorous floats, join in singing traditional songs, and mingle with the friendly locals. The atmosphere of happiness and togetherness makes the Cologne Carnival a memorable experience for anyone looking for a blend of cultural insight and festive fun.
Notting Hill Carnival, London, UK
When: The Notting Hill Carnival is held every August during the UK’s summer bank holiday weekend. In 2024, this vibrant event is planned for Sunday, 25 August to Monday, 26 August.
Where: This colorful carnival takes over the streets of the Notting Hill area in West London, UK. The main activities spread across several streets, with Ladbroke Grove, Westbourne Grove, and Portobello Road being the central hubs of the celebration.
Age group: The Notting Hill Carnival is an inclusive event that welcomes everyone, no matter their age. The first day, known as ‘Children’s Day,’ is especially family-friendly, with activities and parades tailored for younger audiences. The second day is more popular with adults, featuring a more intense party atmosphere.
About: Known for its Caribbean culture, the Notting Hill Carnival is Europe’s biggest street festival. It’s filled with vibrant costumes, steel bands, and sound systems playing a mix of reggae, salsa, calypso, and other Caribbean rhythms. Floats and performers parade through the streets, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. The air is filled with the scents of Caribbean food, from jerk chicken to curries, adding a delicious flavor to the festivities.
Why visit: Visiting the Notting Hill Carnival offers a lively and joyful experience, immersing you in Caribbean culture right in the heart of London. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy live music, dance in the streets, taste a variety of Caribbean foods, and witness the spectacular parade. The carnival’s energetic and friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect event for anyone looking to experience a unique and fun-filled celebration.
Carnival of Cadiz, Spain
Attended by Paulina from Paulina on the Road
When: Thursday, 8 February 2024 to Sunday, 18 February 2024
Where: Cadiz, Spain
Age Group: There are no particular age group limitations to participate in this carnival.
About: The Carnival is attended by citizens of Cadiz where people in colorful costumes perform on the streets. In February, Cadiz becomes a whole new and exciting place. The city of Andalusia celebrates its annual carnival. The festival is famous for roaming groups who are dressed in colorful attires and perform satirizing current affairs. The festival is celebrated for straight 11 days transforming the whole city into one mega celebration.
The celebration is believed to have been inspired by the carnival of Venice. Cadiz once enjoyed prosperous trading relationships with Venice in the 16th century. Since then, the carnival has been popular all around the world.
Why visit: Visiting the Cadiz Carnival is one of the must-do things because the city has large groups in elaborate costumes all around the streets singing witty songs. The streets are filled with people enjoying the songs of carnival groups known as chirigotas. Participating in this carnival is one of the unique things to do in Cadiz. You can experience the city like you never have before.
Trinidad and Tobago Carnival, Trinidad and Tobago
When: The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is an annual event, typically taking place in February or March, just before Ash Wednesday. In 2024, it’s expected to be held on Monday, 12 February, and Tuesday, 13 February.
Where: This cheerful celebration happens mainly in Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago. The streets of the city become a vibrant stage for the carnival’s festivities, with various events spread across different venues.
Age group: While the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is generally more adult-oriented, featuring lively parties and performances, there are also family-friendly events. Children can enjoy the Junior Parade and other activities designed especially for younger participants.
About: The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is famous for its high-energy Soca and Calypso music, stunning costumes, and the lively spirit of its participants. Known as one of the world’s greatest street festivals, it features competitions for the best bands, costumes, and songs. ‘Panorama,’ the national steel pan competition, is a major highlight, showcasing the country’s unique musical invention. The festival cu
o days of street parades with participants dancing in elaborately decorated costumes.
Why visit: Experiencing the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is a dive into a world of rhythm and color. It’s an opportunity to witness the fusion of music, dance, and cultural heritage that makes this carnival unique. Visitors can enjoy the infectious rhythms of Soca and Calypso, marvel at the elaborate costumes, and soak in the lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Sugar Mas Carnival, St Kitts
Attended by Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!
When: The carnival celebrations begin at the end of November 2022 for approximately 6 weeks. The official carnival parade is always on the 1st of January. However, there are many parades to participate in, including J’ouvert on December 15, 2023, and the Last Lap on January 2, 2024.
Where: All celebrations happen in Basseterre, the capital of St Kitts.
Age group: The festivities are open to all ages and there are specific events for children including a children’s carnival parade.
About: Sugar Mas is one of the best things to do in St Kitts with the carnival parades featuring the fantastic elaborate feathered costumes that combine African tribal vibes with European partying to the beat of soca and calypso music. The event also serves a cultural purpose as folklore groups dominate the activities, introducing the crowd to moko jumbies, masqueraders, clowns, and other traditional figures.
Why visit: There is no better way to experience Kittitian culture than to join in the festivities at the carnival, whether you want to don one of the costumes and join the parade or cheer on from the sidelines the atmosphere is infectious. It is not all about the parades either there are many local fetes, beauty pageants, and live music events throughout the 6-week period.
Carnival in Ecuador
Attended by Carley Rojas Avila from Explorers Away
When: Monday, 12 February 2024
Where: Cities throughout Ecuador celebrate Carnival, with the largest celebrations taking place in Guaranda, Ambato, Cuenca, and Quito.
Age Group: People of all ages take part in Carnival celebrations, with children and young adults particularly enjoying festivities like throwing foam and colored powder at friends and family in the streets.
About: Carnival is a holiday associated with Catholicism and celebrated around the world in different ways, but celebrating Carnival in Ecuador is particularly festive and unique. Carnival is most often associated in South America with the large parades, over-the-top costumes, and dancing in the streets in Brazil.
However, Ecuador’s celebrations get messier and include hitting the streets to throw colored powder, flour, eggs, and foam at celebrating friends and neighbors. Celebrations are also marked by outdoor food festivals, musical performances, and parades showing off traditional dances.
Why Visit: Visiting Ecuador during Carnival is the perfect time to not just experience a new place as a traveler, but get involved in local festivities. Street food, music, dance performances, and festivities are everywhere, so it’s easy to take part. This is an unforgettable cultural experience that anyone can get involved in, so even if you don’t speak the language, you’ll immediately blend in and enjoy the messy celebration.
Fête du Citron, Menton, France
Attended by Kat from Wandering Bird Motorhome Blog
When: Saturday, 17 February 2024 to Sunday, 3 March 2024
Where: Menton, France
Age group: Absolutely, although it can get quite crowded. Pushchairs must be left at the gate so you need to carry small children. Smaller kids may not enjoy the crowds. Also worth noting is that dogs aren’t allowed into the statue area.
About: Menton, in the south of France, is famous for its citrus fruit- and the region produces a LOT of citrus fruit. The Menton Lemon Festival is a celebration of that. HUGE statues are created… made entirely of lemons, limes, and oranges. Many of them are over 10ft tall! Over 1 million lemons are used each year.
Why visit: You will never see anything like this anywhere else. Just wandering around the sculptures is impressive, but there are also parades and fireworks to enjoy. There is a carnival atmosphere and you can also buy lots of delicious-smelling lemon products to enjoy back home. The sculptures are different every year and are kept very secret until the grand reveal. The year we went we saw Aladdin and Jasmine, dragons, Vikings, a giant Phoenix, and more!
You can even book a day tour to Menton from Nice.
That’s a wrap-up of our journey through some of the greatest carnivals of the world! These carnival celebrations show us the joy and unity that different cultures bring to our world. So, wherever your travels take you next, remember the spirit of these incredible world carnivals and let it inspire you to keep exploring and enjoying the diverse cultural beauty our world offers.
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