Carnival is upon us! This phenomenon of the western world is one of the largest celebrations in the world, and takes place primarily in Europe and Latin America. Each country that celebrates this event brings its own cultural identity and customs to the festivities, each with its own vibrant and extravagant take on one of the oldest global traditions still honored today. So come with us as we explore Carnival across Europe, where it is celebrated and what makes each nation’s contributions to this hemispheric phenomenon stand out.
Venice, Italy
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We start with one of the most famous and oldest Carnival celebrations in the world, dating back to the 11th century. Venice is a magical city to visit any time of the year, but their Carnival celebration takes it to the next level with a series of extravagant balls, masquerades, and parades. Residents dress up in elaborate masks and opulent costumes that harken back to the Victorian era. The highlight of the festivities is the “Flight of the Angel” where a costumed woman is raised by pulley high above the crowds, launching from atop the bell tower of St. Mark's Basilica.
Cologne, Germany
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While Berlin might seem like the obvious choice for a German Carnival celebration, Cologne can not be overlooked as it holds one of the largest celebrations in the country. Known there as "Karneval" or "Fasching," it includes many parades and public performances, in addition to the requisite costume parties that no Carnival would be complete without. The height of the event is called "Rosenmontag," or Rose Monday, which is the Monday before Ash Wednesday where the celebrations reach a fever pitch.
Nice, France
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Known as one of the most significant events on the French Riviera, Nice’s take on Carnival is a particularly playful interpretation of the event. Here you can expect to see parades with large floats that often satirize political figures and social topics. A highlight is “Bataille de Fleurs,” or Battle of Flowers, where women ride flower-covered floats and toss flowers into the crowds for people to try and catch.
Cádiz and Tenerife, Spain
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For Spain, it is worth highlighting both the port city of Cádiz and the island of Tenerife. Both have extremely lively celebrations with costumes that display world-renowned extravagance. Cádiz is known for humorous music groups called “chirigotas,” who poke fun at local figures and topics of cultural discussion. Tenerife, on the other hand, holds one of the largest celebrations in the world, especially in the city of Santa Cruz.
Binche, Belgium
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When an event is recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, you know it is going to be a culturally unique experience. Such as it is in Binche, where in addition to the typical extravagant parades and street parties, you will find "Gilles," pictured above. These oddly dressed men march through the streets throwing oranges into the crowd in one of the oldest Carnival parade traditions in the world.
Basel, Switzerland
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The Carnival celebration in Basel is known locally as "Fasnacht,"and is unique to other Carnivals as it takes place starting on the Monday after Ash Wednesday, instead of before. It begins at 4am with the "Morgestraich," in which the city is illuminated by hand-painted lanterns that participants march through the streets with, beginning the festivities with a uniquely haunting energy.
Portugal
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There are several cities and towns in Portugal that celebrate Carnival, with Ovar, Torres Vedras, and Loulé being the most well-known. Each town implements its own blend of religious practices, pagan histories, and modern culture into their celebration, creating a wide variety of festivities from city to city.
