Carnival - This is an enchanting sight, an exciting atmosphere and bustling fun. By the way, the word "carnival" is a derivative of "carne" and "vale", which means farewell to meat. After all, the first carnivals were held on the eve of Lent.
In today's selection, we offer a look at the most famous carnivals of the world. By the way, all of them pass in the winter, destroying the notion that the cold months are created for boredom and gloom.
5. Carnival in New Orleans, USA
Carnival traditions were brought to this American city in the 19th century by French students. The holiday quickly took root and became an annual event. A notable feature of the New Orleans carnival procession is the custom of throwing beads, toys and coins from decorated platforms into the crowd. For good luck, you should immediately step on the thrown little thing with a heel, so in the crowd a real crush begins. Well, the main trophy is a coconut thrown from a motorcade.
4. Carnival in Nice, France
The carnival was first held in this coastal city in 1294. The brightest moments of the holiday are a parade of flowers and a parade of light. The carnival in Nice is famous for its fireworks, for which carnival communities spare no money. A nationwide walk lasts as long as 15 days. By the way, the entrance to General Masenna Square, where the main shows are held, is free only for spectators in carnival costumes, the rest have to pay 40 euros.
3. Carnival in Cologne, Germany
The carnival takes place in February, but preparations for it begin much earlier. Every year on November 11, at 11 o’clock and 11 minutes, “carnival meetings” begin their work. They approve the program of the future holiday. Well, during the carnival, reputable and slightly phlegmatic Germans suddenly transform beyond recognition. The culmination of the holiday is Pink Monday. On this day, a festive procession takes place in the streets, during which it is customary to submit papier-mâché figures ridiculing politicians to the public.
2. Venice Carnival, Italy
The beginning of the carnival falls on “Fat Tuesday” - the Catholic Shrovetide. The first mention of the Venetian carnival dates back to 1094. While the carnival lasts, from 30 thousand people arrive in Venice daily. The total number of tourists reaches half a million. The most famous tradition of the carnival is the Venetian masks - they have become a real symbol of the city on the water.
1. Carnival in Rio, Brazil
Brazilian carnival - the most famous in the world. It takes place in the last weeks of February - in the midst of the South American summer. The carnival in Rio lasts 4 days, and more than a million tourists come to see it every year. Festivities with dances, fireworks and songs are held throughout the country. The most spectacular event of the carnival is the parade of Samba schools. Colorful carts and dancers in beautiful costumes make their way along the 600-meter “sambodrome” to the music. The result of the procession is the choice of the best Brazilian school of Samba.
