Panjim, 28th February 2025 – Goa’s most awaited festival, the Goa Carnaval 2025, was officially flagged off today in a grand ceremony by Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr Pramod Sawant, along with Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, Managing Director GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Mayor of Panjim, Shri Rohit Monserrate, Panjim Carnaval Committee, and Varsha Usgaonkar, Actress. With the legendary King Momo proclaiming his famous decree—”Eat, Drink & Make Merry but Responsibly”—the festivities commenced, setting the stage for four days of unparalleled revelry until 4th March 2025.

The Carnaval’s signature float parade, a spectacle of color, culture, and creativity, set off from Panjim, making its way through Mapusa, Morjim, Margao, and Vasco. These elaborately decorated floats showcased Goa’s rich folklore, traditions, and modern artistic expressions, creating a mesmerizing experience for locals and tourists alike. Street performers, dancers in flamboyant costumes, and vibrant music added to the infectious energy that filled the air.

Speaking at the inauguration, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the festival’s role in promoting Goa’s unique cultural heritage and responsible tourism. “Goa Carnaval is not just a festival; it is a celebration of our vibrant traditions, our people, and our global appeal. Through festivals like this, we continue to showcase Goa as a destination that offers much more than its beaches—a place where culture, community, and sustainable tourism come together.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, highlighted the growing significance of the festival in Goa’s tourism calendar. “Every year, Carnaval attracts visitors from across the world, reinforcing Goa’s position as a leading cultural and festival tourism destination. We are committed to making such events more inclusive, sustainable, and experiential for everyone.”

The Goa Carnaval 2025 embodies the state’s spirit of joy and inclusivity, ensuring a diverse lineup of family-friendly activities, street plays, and children’s parades. As the streets of Goa come alive with music, dance, and merriment, the Carnaval stands as a testament to the state’s rich heritage and the unwavering enthusiasm of its people.