Welcome to the most colourful and vibrant celebration in the world! The carnival celebration is one of the most widespread around the world. From parades full of colour to street parties, carnival is an explosion of joy, music, colour and, of course, costumes.
Today, we’re going to explore some of the best carnivals in the world and look at how they are celebrated, so get ready to find out more about how people experience this festival and, above all, have a great time.
Carnivals in Brasil
Let’s start in Brazil, where the carnival is undoubtedly the most important celebration of all. It’s not the most famous carnival in the world for nothing! The Rio de Janeiro carnival is the most famous, with its samba processions attracting millions of visitors each year.
Samba schools compete in the Sambadrome, with impressive floats, dazzling costumes and incredible choreographies set to the rhythm of infectious music, leaving people speechless and creating an unforgettable show.
Carnival is not just celebrated in Rio de Janeiro. Cities such as Salvador and Recife also have their own carnivals, full of Afro-Brazilian rhythms and infectious energy. So, if you’re thinking about experiencing the2025 carnival in a different way, Brazil is a safe bet. Just remember, it’s a celebration to experience worry-free, with light, colourful clothing and, of course, a pair of extremely comfortable women’s flip flops to relax in after so much samba.
When is the Brazil carnival?
The Rio carnival is usually held between February and March, always before Lent. It was a time of great importance also in ancient times, as the festivities carnival is based on used to celebrate the arrival of spring. In 2025, the dates for the Rio carnival are 28 February to 8 March.
Origin of the Brazil carnival
The roots of the best carnival in the world date back to pagan festivities in Europe, which were mixed with African and Portuguese traditions upon arrival in Brazil. In the 18th century, the festival began to take shape on the streets, with samba rhythms and colourful parades. Nowadays, it’s an impressive event that attracts millions of people, where joy and music abound!
Carnivals in Spain
We’re now going to hop back across the pond to Spain, where carnival is all about revelry and fun. With colourful parades, inventive costumes and loud music, it’s the perfect party to let your imagination run wild. In every corner of the country, a unique celebration is held that is full of joy. Prepare to dance, laugh and have the best time at this incredibly special festival that fills you with positive energy!
Cádiz Carnival
Cádiz Carnival stands out for its humour and satire. Normally held in February, this carnival dates back to the 18th century and has become one of Spain’s most beloved festivals. What makes Cádiz carnival one of the best in the world is its focus on social and political criticism. Chirigota groups, which are humorous choirs dress up in extravagant costumes, sing inventive songs about current local and national topics.
The people of Cádiz are known for their ingenuity, and during the carnival, the streets become a stage where laughter and fun are the protagonists. Cádiz is filled with laughter, music and, of course, people in costumes. People gather with their friends and enjoy tapas and drinks, while laughing at what the chirigotas have to say. If you like humour and music, Cádiz is the perfect place to enjoy a unique carnival.
One of the main attractions of the Cádiz carnival is the Official Competition of Carnival Groups that is held at the Gran Teatro Falla theatre.
The theatre is filled with locals and fans from all over Spain who come to enjoy the chirigota choirs and the comparsas (groups of singers, musicians and dancers).The Teatro Falla competition begins with the preliminary rounds in January and ends with the Grand Final in February, which is broadcast live and followed by thousands of people.
When is the Cádiz carnival held?
The Cádiz carnivals will be held from Thursday, 27 February to Sunday, 9 March.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival
In the Canary Islands, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife carnival is not just one of the biggest and most spectacular in Spain, but has also become one of the most important worldwide. Normally held between February and March, it is famous for its parades full of colour, music and dancing. Its origins date back to carnival festivities that arrived on the islands in the 18th century.
In 2025, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife carnival will be held from 31 January to 9 March.
The atmosphere of the Tenerife carnival is very similar to that of Brazil, with a mix of Latin rhythms and, above all, a huge dose of joy. The comparsas and murgas (musical theatre groups) compete in a festival atmosphere that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The election of the carnival queen is, however, undoubtedly one of the most anticipated moments, where the candidates dazzle with their impressive costumes. Why not enjoy the atmosphere on the streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife for carnival 2025?
Maspalomas Carnival in Gran Canaria
Continuing in the Canary Islands, there is another internationally renowned carnival, the Maspalomas carnival, on the island of Gran Canaria. An absolute essential for the most fervent carnival fans, it is held in February and March, and is known, in addition to its festive atmosphere, for its inclusivity.
When is the Maspalomas carnival? This year, it will be held from 18 March to 30 March 2025. The specific dates are listed in the Las Palmas carnival programme.
The Maspalomas carnival also stands out for its focus on diversity, with events that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The beaches are filled with colourful parades and open-air parties, where everyone is welcome and you can witness some of the best drag shows in the world. So, if you’re looking for a carnival where fun and acceptance are the norm, Maspalomas is the ideal place!
Catalonia Carnival
In Catalonia, carnival is celebrated in several cities, but if there is one in particular that should be highlighted, it’s Sitges. It takes place in February and combines tradition with a modern, festive atmosphere. People gather in the streets for parades, parties and activities for all ages.
Sitges carnival is also known for its inclusive atmosphere and celebration of diversity. As well as for the carnival costumes, which are a key part of the event. Carnival lovers go all out and express their creativity without limits. Get ready to see some of the most original and fun costumes!
Carnival is a huge party, but Europe also has magical, hidden corners. Discover the list of the most beautiful towns in Europe on our blog.
Notting Hill Carnival in London
Now, let’s pop over to London, where thousands of people look forward to the Notting Hill carnival every year.
This year, the carnival will be held from Saturday, 24 August to Monday, 26 August.
In contrast to all the rest, it is held in the month of August and is a huge celebration of Caribbean culture and the influence of immigration on the Thames city.
It is one of the biggest carnivals in Europe and attracts millions of visitors. With its music, dancing and Caribbean food, it’s a celebration of cultural diversity. The colourful floats and vibrant costumes fill the streets of Notting Hill, creating a festival atmosphere that is hard to resist. If you love reggae music and a festive atmosphere, this carnival is for you!
Venice Carnival in Italy
In Italy, the Venice carnival is known for its elegance and mystery. Held in February, this carnival is characterised by its elaborate masks and costumes that take you back in time. The streets and canals of Venice are filled with a magical air, where history and tradition come together.
The events include masked balls, parades and cultural activities that attract visitors from all over the world. If you’re looking for a carnival with a touch of sophistication, Venice is the perfect place to enjoy a unique experience!
The 2025 Venice carnival will be held from 14 February to 4 March.
Cologne Carnival in Germany
In Germany, the Cologne carnival is one of the biggest and liveliest in the country. Held in February, this carnival is known for its festive atmosphere and focus on having fun. The streets are filled with music, dancing and extravagant costumes, creating an atmosphere full of joy and celebration.
This carnival will be held from 27 February to 5 March.
What is known as “Women’s Day” is one of the highlights, where women take control and celebrate enthusiastically, holding an amazing parade with music, costumes and the typical sweets that are a key element. If you’re looking for a carnival where fun and camaraderie are the norm, then make sure you visit Cologne during carnival.
Mardi Gras Carnival in New Orleans
Finally, let’s hop back across the pond to New Orleans, where Mardi Gras is a celebration full of tradition and culture. Held in February, this carnival is famous for its parades, jazz music and delicious food. The streets are filled with colourful costumes and floats that dazzle carnival-goers while they have fun and bow to the lucky ones that have been named king and queen of Mardi Gras.
Mardi Gras has a rich history dating back to French and African traditions, attracting thousands of visitors each year looking to enjoy the festival. If you love music, food and a festive atmosphere, New Orleans is the carnival destination for you!
As you can see, carnival celebrations around the world may vary, but if there’s one thing they have in common, it’s the desire of those attending to have fun. Enjoy carnival 2025!
