Ten countries where they celebrate Carnival in style

Parades, games, music and dancing are some of the most common attractions Carnival, this holiday that is celebrated worldwide and of which every country is proud. For this holiday, many people decide to travel and go to the best carnivals in the world.

You’ve probably heard of it Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, one of the most famous. But, Did you know that there are other celebrations in Latin America that are just as spectacular? Also in certain countries in Europe, so find out here which are the ten places where they celebrate Carnival in style.

When is the carnival holiday in 2024?

Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

It is the largest and most famous carnival in the world, so much so that the photos do not capture the true experience of being there during these four days in Rio. It is notable for its parades featuring models and dancers in striking traditional costumes, upbeat music and giant floats decorated to impress the crowd. At the same time, street parties are held where the neighborhoods come together to dance and play, both children and adults.

The longest carnival in the world, Uruguay

Uruguayans celebrate their carnival for over a month, from late January to mid-March, making it the longest carnival in the world. And there are several expected moments, such as the Llamadas de Montevideo parade, celebrated in the Barrios Sur and Palermo, or the official competition of carnival groups, where make-up, costumes and choreographies stand out and award prizes. And in this country there is the only Carnival Museum that honors the history of this tradition.

Barranquilla Carnival, Colombia

During the Barranquilla Carnival, various activities are celebrated in Colombia, such as the Battle of Flowers, the Grand Parade or the Orchestra Festival. Due to the great impact these holidays have, Carnival was declared a World Heritage Site in 2003 and became one of the most recognized festivities in the world.

Carnival of Tenerife and Cádiz, Spain

People who visit Tenerife, Spain, during the Carnival festivities will enjoy a real moment of fun as they experience an atmosphere full of music, dance and tradition. These celebrations have been recognized as a festival of international tourist interest due to their various attractions such as murga groups, comparsas and costumes.

During Carnival, another festival takes place through the streets of Spain, this time in Cádiz. It is a somewhat different festival, as groups of comparsas predominate, parading through the streets and narrating current events with irony and grace. There is also no shortage of artistic expressions and curious costumes, competing in the official competition of carnival groups, in which choirs, chirigotas, troops and quartets also participate.

Carnival of Venice, Italy

If there is one thing that sets Venice Carnival apart in Italy, it is its elegance and sophistication. Unlike other carnivals, the most representative part of this is not the music and dancing, but the masks and elaborate parades with majestic costumes from other times. And this happens not only on the streets, but also in processions of boats sailing through the canals of the city.

Notting Hill Carnival, UK

The Notting Hill Carnival is celebrated in London, the capital of the United Kingdom and one of the most famous and populous cities in the world. The Carnival festival is in fact the largest in Europe, attracting around two million visitors annually. The inspiration comes from Caribbean parties, with colorful costumes, loudspeakers with music and rum drinks enjoyed by most attendees.

The Festival of Fruit and Flowers, Ecuador

In the city of Ambato, in Ecuador, during Carnival there is a beautiful Festival of Fruits and Flowers, so called because all the streets and carriages are decorated with flowers and fruits, providing a beautiful spectacle for visitors. The first activity of the festivities is the blessing mass of flowers, fruit and bread that takes place in the atrium of the city’s cathedral. And on the street, children, young people and adults play with getting dirty with water, foam and ink.

Carnival of Veracruz, Mexico

This carnival is one of the oldest in Mexico and has several curious traditions, such as the burning of bad humor, which kicks off the festivities so that there is real joy. A Queen of the Mexican Carnival and a King of Joy are also chosen. After days of music and dancing, the Veracruz Carnival ends with the funeral of Juan Carnaval, a humorous character who attends his own will reading.

Nice Carnival, France

The Nice Carnival is the largest in France, with around 11 parades featuring thousands of dancers displaying eye-catching costumes. The models throw flowers from the floats to the attendees who arrive from all over Europe.

Junkanoo Carnival, Bahamas

The Junkanoo Festival is held during Carnival in the Bahamas archipelago. It is a celebration of life, with dance and music from Bahamian culture. For the indigenous people, this festival is a representation of their traditions, something they like to share with visitors who come to enjoy this festival. (JO)