With the rising temperatures of the month of February, Goa goes all out to welcome one of its most cherished festivals – Carnival.
Full of colour, revellery and teeming with energy, if you’re curious to know what Carnival is all about, or plan on visiting during the festivities, read on because we’re spilling all the deets here.
CARNIVAL? YOU MEAN LIKE RIO DE JANEIRO
The version you witness in the present day is one that has evolved over the years. Goa’s Carnival, back in the day, was all about community spirit, fun and merriment.
What formed a huge part of the festival were khel tiatrs (one-act plays) that highlighted societal issues, and groups of youth indulging in mock battles with water balloons and cocottes.
It was only in the mid-60s that the parades started on Sabado Gordo (the Saturday before Ash Wednesday) where King Momo reads the decree to ‘Eat, drink and make merry’ and announces his rule for the next few days.
Today, much like the renowned Rio Carnival in Brazil, the streets of Goa come alive with elaborate parades, lively dancing and countless parties.
That said, there’s no doubt Goa has created its own version of Carnival, that really needs to be experienced first-hand.
I’M IN, BUT WHAT DO I EXPECT
With music that keeps your foot tapping and body swaying, you don’t want to miss the chance to be on the streets of Goa and watch the live action unfold.
Right from the grand entry of King Momo, where he initiates the celebrations, to the creativity on display with themed floats, accompanied by dancers who move effortlessly, the energy is simply unmatched.
What’s more fulfilling is being part of the crowd, that’s dressed in their festive best with hats, masks and bright smiles, cheering on the performers adding to the excited atmosphere.
There’s also a ton of celebrations to be a part of, including exhibitions, parties, the Red and Black dance at Samba Square in Panjim and other festivals like Potekar and Mussol Khel that are held during the Carnival days.
A Goan fiesta without food is pretty impossible and so, don’t shy away from indulging in the sumptuous local delights at the festival venues. We recommend you try the summer specials, urrak and feni, and other bites like the cutlet bread, croquettes and more.
KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER
This year, Carnival will be held across five days at six different locations. Kicking off at Porvorim on February 28, the parade will grace the capital city Panjim on March 1 (the best parade among the lot), followed by the celebrations in Margao on March 2, Vasco on March 3 and finally conclude in Mapusa and Morjim on March 4. Viewing these is free, so be there!
Crowds line up on both sides of the parade route, and as a result, traffic is generally diverted. If you plan on heading to any of the Carnival venues, make sure to check the road plan and avoid four wheelers. Pro tip: park away from the parade route and walk your way to the event.
The parade typically kicks off between 3.30 pm to 4 pm, but the heat in Goa can get tortuous, so be sure to wear something light and breathable, keep it festive, colourful and bright.
Don’t forget sunscreen, and keep yourself hydrated, carry water if required. With all that standing and walking to do, comfortable footwear is a must. Also, be mindful of the surroundings and avoid littering.
Just like a season, Carnival comes with its own excitement. If you want to experience it all, make sure to head to Goa this month end, and immerse yourself in the festivities as you say a loud ‘Viva!’