Carnival Traditions

Carnival is one of the biggest and most colorful celebrations in the world. It happens in many countries, usually in February or March. People wear fancy costumes, dance in parades, and play music. Carnival is a time for fun and celebration before a quieter season begins.

Carnival Around the World

The biggest Carnival in the world is in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Millions of people dance in the streets to samba music. In Venice, Italy, people wear beautiful masks and costumes. In New Orleans, the celebration is called Mardi Gras, and people throw colorful beads from parade floats. In Trinidad and Tobago, Carnival features steel drum bands and calypso music.

The History of Carnival

Carnival traditions go back hundreds of years. The word "carnival" may come from Latin words meaning "farewell to meat." It was originally a celebration before a period of fasting in the Christian calendar. Over time, it became a huge party with its own special traditions in each country.

Fun Facts

• Rio de Janeiro's Carnival attracts about 2 million people to the streets every day during the festival.
• The Venice Carnival has been celebrated since the 1200s.
• Mardi Gras means "Fat Tuesday" in French.

Did You Know?

In Trinidad and Tobago, the steel drum was invented for Carnival. People made instruments out of old oil barrels because they were not allowed to play traditional drums!