January 29th, 2018 by OYO Team

If you thought the festivities in Goa ended with New Year’s Eve, you’re wrong. What started in December will end in a mega finale in February with the 4-day long annual carnival in Goa. It’s colourful, vibrant, loud, full of happy people, and a celebration of everything that Goans hold dear about their hometown.

Witnessing this carnival in all its glory is an unforgettable experience and a unique part of the diverse Indian culture. This year, the Carnival is being held from 10th to 13th February. If you haven’t seen the Goa Carnival yet, here’s why you need to book your tickets for it this year.

The parades are unlike any you’ve ever seen in India.

Image Source: Goa Tourism

Image Source: Goa Tourism

Image Source: Travelogy India

When you see a burst of colour on the streets of Goa, you know you’re in the middle of the annual carnival. You’ll be tempted to hop on to one of the gorgeous floats in the parade, but even watching from the crowd is great. Also, it is imperative that you cheer at the top of your voice and dance around wherever you are when the parade crosses in front of you. It’s almost the law.

It’s India’s Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras parade in Brazil

Image Source: Carnival New Orleans News 

Ever since we’ve heard of Mardi Gras, we’ve all wanted to go to Brazil. But did you know that India has its own version of Mardi Gras? The parade has dancers performing to all kinds of music, there are celebrations all over Goa, and there are wonderful masks that you can wear all the time and feel a part of the festivities. So if you’ve always dreamed of Brazil but don’t have the money for it, go to Goa for the carnival.

Eat And Drink Like The Locals Do

Image Source: India.com

When in Goa, drink and eat like the Goans do. While the Carnival is on, it is the best time to sample local delicacies like Feni which can make you feel “happy,” and local seafood preparations which you won’t get anywhere else. Drink and eat all day and night because that is the norm during the Goa Carnival.

Experience The Richness of Goan History

Image Source: Goa Leisure

We have the Portuguese to thank for the wonderful tradition of the annual carnival. It’s held just before the period of Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, the day after the Carnival ends. During this period, Catholics fast and abstain from festivities. So before this 40-day period starts, Goa refuses to sleep and celebrates from morning to night for four days. Reason enough to party, don’t you think?

Meet People From Across The World

Image Source: india.com 

If you pride yourself on being a “citizen of the world,” Goa is where you can test yourself, especially during the carnival. You’ll land up having interesting conversations and really interesting meals with people from across the world.

Follow The Carnival And Explore Goa

Image Source: Goa Tourism

The carnival travels across Goa and covers a vast distance from Panjim to Margao, Vasco and Mapusa. So if you follow it around, you’ll also get to explore various parts of Goa which you may not do on a regular lazy holiday to Goa.

People of All Ages Can Be A Part of The Fun

Image Source: Goa.me

From kids to teenagers, young adults, and people of our grandparents’ age, everyone finds something to enjoy at the carnival. It’s truly a family activity unlike any other. So if you’re thinking of a family holiday with your parents and/or kids, head to the Goa Carnival. You will never have to worry about them getting bored.

The best way to enjoy Goa is by staying in a holiday home, which gives you the privacy and space that hotels lack. Book an OYO Home so that all of you can stay together and really enjoy the vibe of the Goa Carnival. Don’t wait, an OYO Home doesn’t stay vacant for very long.

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About OYO Team

We’re people who love to travel and it’s a pleasure to share our experiences from around the world with you here. You’ll see our favourite destinations, quirky stays and budget stay. Also the best wedding banquet halls and the most lit party destinations. You’ll also find insightful opinions about why we travel in the first place and what it’s really like out there. Enjoy the blog and please tell us what you think - feedback welcome!