Some history on Carnaval:
Carnaval is celebrated in Goa since the 18th century. Meant to be a feasting-drinking-merrymaking orgy just before the 40 days of Lent; a time of abstinence and spirituality. The Carnaval is exclusive and unique to Goa, and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years.
The float parades are organized in association with the State Tourism Department. Although, the four-day festival is primarily celebrated by Christians, it has also absorbed Hindu tradition revelry, western dance forms, and turned into a pageantry of sorts.
The origins and nature of the carnaval can be traced to the hedonistic feasts of ancient Rome and Greece.
The word Carnival (Carnaval in Portuguese) is derived from a Latin word meaning to take away meat and is an expression of the 40-day period of fasting of Lent, during which abstinence from meat is a rule.
The carnaval is not celebrated anywhere else in India and was in decline even in Goa in the last few years of Portuguese rule. It was revived with the Liberation of Goa, and is a boost to tourism drawing lakhs of tourists from far and wide to witness and participate in the four day revelry.
Goa Carnaval 2017 from February 25-28
The season to Samba and serenade on the streets of Goa is finally round the corner. From February 25-28, 2017, Goa will come alive to celebrate the annual four day Carnaval with spectacular float parades, Carnaval festivities and an array of events and activities.
The legendary King Momo will rule over Goa for four days and will throw open Carnaval revelry in the capital city on 25th February 2017.
Elaborate floats, music, dancing and décor will form part of the four day Carnaval extravaganza and one you will not want to miss. Float parades in the four cities: Panjim, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa will be held from February 25-28 respectively.
Various Carnaval committees have been set up and guidelines drawn up for smooth conduct of the four day festivities. In addition to maintaining the traditional and cultural essence of Carnaval, this year the focus is weeding out non eco friendly floats, polluting junk vehicles and a total crack down on indecency.
