The best carnivals in the world

Carnival is celebrated in over 50 countries around the world, often with large events of global resonance. In fact, each city has its own traditions and way of celebrating Carnival. Here are some of the biggest and best carnivals in the world!

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

It may seem obvious but the biggest and probably most famous Carnival in the world is the one in Rio de Janeiro. It is a celebration usually attended by more than five million people! The samba-fueled parades feature 20-meter floats and thousands of performers, in addition to the hundreds of street parties that take place throughout the city.

Location: Rio de Janeiro
Dates: February 17 to 25

New Orleans, USA

The New Orleans carnival is celebrated in the famous "Mardi Gras." The celebration has a long history, when Louisiana was a French colony. The Mardi Gras in New Orleans is characterized by numerous parades, costume parties and lots of merriment. During the parades, float drivers toss gifts to the crowd, including the famous colorful beaded necklaces worn by virtually everyone on Mardi Gras Day.

Location: New Orleans
Dates: February 21

Venice, Italy

The unique Venice Carnival attracts millions of visitors every year. Both extravagant and elegant, it is famous for its costumes inspired by traditional 18th century costumes. During the 20 days of the carnival period, luxurious masked balls are held, where you can admire some of the most complex and rare traditional costumes, enhanced by the typical Venetian atmosphere.

Location: Venice
Dates: February 4 to 21

Nice, France

The Carnival of Nice takes place during the two weeks before Ash Wednesday. With more than 10 parades and thousands of dancers and musicians, the Carnival of Nice is the largest carnival in France. Among the events organized is the Parade of Flowers, which sees over 100,000 flowers thrown from floats into the crowd.

Location: Nice
Dates: February 10 to 26

Tenerife, Spain

The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a festival held every year in the capital of the Canary Islands. It attracts hundreds of thousands of people every year, thanks to its well-known crowded parties that fill all the streets and squares of the city throughout the festivities. Parades, free concerts, dances, contests and fireworks, all in original colorful costumes.

Location: Tenerife
Dates: February 17 to 26

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