7 best carnivals in the world

Colorful parades, obscure costumes, and vibrant parties are some of the best carnivals in the world. Get your costumes ready.

7 PHOTOS

1. Mardi Gras - New Orleans, Los Angeles, USA.

Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, has its roots in 17th and 18th-century European traditions in the House of Bourbon (royal dynasty). Long gone are the days when Mardi Gras was a holiday for privileged people - today it is an affordable holiday.

2. Carnival of Venice - Venice, Italy.

The Carnival of Venice is said to have roots in the celebration of the Republic of Venice, commemorating its victory over Patriarch Aquileia in 1162. Since then, the festivities have grown significantly, although the tradition of wearing masks remains.

3. Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife - Tenerife, Canary Islands.

It is considered the second most popular carnival after the carnival in Rio.

4. Cologne Carnival - Cologne, Germany.

While the Cologne carnival season officially begins on November 11 at 11:11 am, the main event takes place in February every year. The women of the city dress in suits even when going to work.

5. Rio Carnival - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The crown jewel of the world's many carnivals, Rio's giant event dates back to 1723 and has over two million participants. Samba music is at the center of the celebration, and over 200 samba schools (social clubs representing the neighborhood) vie for their fair share of attention in many vibrant parades.

6. Oruro Carnival - Oruro, Bolivia.

A holiday with a strong connection to religious symbolism in the form of Pachamama (Mother Earth) and Tio Suei (God of the underworld). These two icons form the backdrop for the festival, which features the "Devil's Dance" ritual, "La Diablada", which personifies the triumph of good over evil.

7. Binche Carnival - Binche, Belgium.

UNESCO named the Binche Carnival a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” in 2003. While Belgium hosts several other carnivals around the same period, Binche stands out for its performers (known as Gilles), events, and other curious aspects.