Carnival
The most famous and largest carnival in the world takes place in Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil. Carnival in Brazil is not just a fun celebration, but a chance
to experience the diverse culture of the country. Brazil is often referred to as
a 'melting-pot' of culture. There are many European, African and American
influences in Brazilian society. Carnival epitomises the Brazilian way of life
and their way of thinking. There are many parties, which take place throughout
the day and during the night, celebrating the songs,
music and dances, typical of Brazilian culture. The
most popular form of music and dancing at the Rio
carnival is samba, a style unique to Brazil, which is
often played on drums with traditional dancing. The
'Sambódromo' is an avenue, specially made to host
carnival in Rio. Every year, thousands of people go to
this area to celebrate carnival, including over 500,000
foreign visitors!
Although carnival is linked to religious faith and
traditions, it is a time of fun, excess and flamboyance,
enjoyed by millions across the world.
Carnivals in Europe
There are several carnivals in Europe, for example:
Cadiz is where the largest Spanish carnival takes place. It is heavily
influenced by local traditions along with current and political events. Like
Rio, there are parades and floats with lots of music.
Nice, in France, is a carnival that is heavily influenced by Catholic traditions.
People indulge in lots of rich food in the build up to Lent. One of the most
popular street celebrations is the Battle of the Flowers, where there are lots
of floats and costumes, brimming with plants and flowers.
Cologne is the principal carnival city in Germany. The carnival season
actually begins in November here and culminates the week before (and
including) Shrove Tuesday. There are lots of parades and people dress up
- even at work and school. It is one of Germany's most important cultural
events.
HAE
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Carnival
There are many festivals and celebrations around the world throughout the
year. However, carnival is one of the most famous and flamboyant festivities.
Many carnivals take place in the build-up to the religious season of Lent. Lent
happens during the six weeks before Easter Sunday, when people prepare
for the death and resurrection of Jesus. Therefore, the majority of carnivals
take place during February. Lent is a time when, traditionally, people give up
something that they will find difficult. This could be a type of food or a bad
habit that they want to try to stop.
Carnivals differ from place to place as many areas focus on their own traditions
and pastimes and are often heavily influenced by the culture of their country.
In most countries, carnival is often characterized by masks, flamboyant
costumes, music and colourful floats and parades. Some carnivals have special
trinkets or symbols. In New Orleans, they have sweet and very colourful cakes
called King Cakes as a symbol of their carnival (Mardi Gras).
