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    Notting Hill Carnival 2016

    "Love Notting Hill Carnival?"

    Why not try some of these international parties on for size

    The best carnivals around the world to rival Notting Hill

    Everyone loves Notting Hill Carnival. From the colourful costumes to the tasty Caribbean food, it’s a party that’s hard to beat – but not impossible. We’ve scoured the globe for some of the best carnivals around the world that gives Notting Hill a run for its money. Think brass bands, sobbing over a sardine and celebrating a tooth.

    Goa carnival

    When? - February


    While you’d probably expect to find carnivals dotted around Spain and the Caribbean islands, Goa might not necessarily be your go-to carnival spot. But Goa carnival is one of the biggest parties in India’s calendar, and definitely worth a visit. The streets come to life with a Portuguese- Indian-infused atmosphere, thanks to Goa’s solid historical ties with Portugal. Everything from the food served to the dancers has a strong, international feel – making you feel welcome no matter where you’re from. There are acrobats, brass bands, clowns and colourful floats driving through the streets. And best of all, it’s free to attend – and everyone is welcome.

    Aruba carnival

    When? - January


    The people of Aruba don’t take their carnival responsibilities lightly, with their celebrations spanning over two months. It’s an over-the-top affair, from people in glitzy costumes dancing to the beats of tumba music and steel bands, to the numerous parades that take place on the streets of Oranjestad – including a pajama parade. Plus there’s glitter, lots of it. You can party all day and all night, and refuel by sipping daiquiris by the pool. People travel from all over the world to go, so make sure you snap up tickets in advance to secure your place.

    Rio Carnival

    When? – February


    This is arguably the biggest carnival in the world, with two million people attending the five-day festival every day. The celebration starts 40 days before Easter, and has been going since the 1700s. It’s the perfect opportunity to see the usually laid-back Rio turn into a 24 hour party, filled with upbeat music, bright colours and ridiculous amounts of tasty food. While the festival is only a week long, a series of 500 street parties, or blocos, happen a month before and continue two weeks after – so there’s plenty of time to join in. Some of the most famous blocos include tributes to popular icons, like Quizomba, who blend rock classics such as Nirvana and Rage Against The Machine with samba music – it’s got to be seen to be believed. Partygoers are fuelled by trays of tequila shots, and kisses from strangers. Not surprisingly, tickets for the event sell out quickly, so get yours as early as possible.

    Kandy Esala Perahera – Sri Lanka

    When? - August


    Jewel-encrusted elephants, a water-cutting ceremony and fire-eaters – all in the name of Buddha’s tooth. Legend has it that 1,700 years ago one of Buddha’s teeth was stolen from where he was buried and smuggled into Sri Lanka. Now, the tooth is a sacred symbol to Sri Lankans, and the Kandy Esala Perahera revolves around a replica of Buddha’s tooth arriving to the festival. Some of the celebrations involve entering temples, so if you want to join in make sure your shoulders and knees are covered up.

    Carnival in Santa Cruz - Tenerife

    When? - February


    The Carnival in Santa Cruz is said to be the second biggest carnival in the world, after Rio. It’s so popular that it one day hopes to be considered a World Heritage Site. You can’t help but be captivated by the festival spirit here, with locals drawing you into the festivities. The carnival ends when a large papier mâché sardine is burnt and buried, and everyone takes to mourning and crying for it. Don’t worry, the sombre atmosphere soon returns to party-central, with the locals dancing to celebrate.

    Ready to hop on a plane to one of these world-famous carnivals?

    Check out our holidays to India, Aruba, Sri Lanka and Tenerife, as well as all of our latest deals.


    Author: Abi Payne-Humphries

    Published: 23.08.2016.

    Tags: latest

    Destinations: Spain , India , Sri Lanka

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