THE MOST SPECTACULAR CARNIVALS IN THE WORLD

Did you know that February is the most joyful time of the year? Why? Because of the carnivals happening all over the globe! The festivities include colourful parades, rich foods, and different forms of entertainment. There are hundreds of carnivals across the world, but here are the most spectacular ones.

The Carnival of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This is the greatest and most colourful carnival in the world. This Brazilian Carnival started in Rio de Janeiro in 1723, and has become a huge event. Every year, the carnival takes place in mid-February. It begins with the city’s mayor giving the city’s gold and silver key to the carnival's 'king'. Then it is time for the Samba Parade. The best samba schools in Rio march through the half-mile long Sambadrome theatre in Rio, and compete to be known as the best in Brazil.

The Carnival of Venice, Italy

The Venice Carnival is probably the second best carnival in the world. It includes great balls, concerts, dances, parades and other events. The participants usually wear colourful costumes and masks. This tradition of wearing masks began in the 15th century. The Venetian Mask came into being because all the residents wanted to look equal, no matter how rich or poor they were. Today, approximately 30,000 visitors come to Venice each day for the carnival.

The Nice Carnival, France

Another of the world’s major carnival events is the Nice Carnival. During carnival, Nice is essentially just one big party, with parades in the daytime and a large bonfire and fireworks in the evening. On the first Sunday afternoon, the carnival starts. There are twenty or more floats in the procession and as many as 500 papier mache heads. The carnival in Nice started around 1295. Each year since 1873, the Nice Carnival has had a ‘committee for the parties’ to organize amazing floats, fabulous costumes, and a more stunning atmosphere than the year before.