While many American find themselves cold and indoors this time of year, there are plenty of warm climates — with great last-minute deals — to escape to. By definition, Carnival is a “period of public revelry at a regular time each year,” which often involves “processions, music, dancing, and the use of masquerade.” There is plenty of Carnival going around the Caribbean in February 2018, and we at A Global Lifestyle have prepared a mini-guide of upcoming Carnivals to attend.
Aruba’s Carnival
This Carnival brings colorfully decorated floats, pulsating music, extravagantly costumed groups of all ages, King & Queen elections, electrifying “jump-ups” and torchlight parades that wind their way through the streets at night. Expect to see the Jouvert morning, as followed by the children’s parades and finally the Grand Parade from February 10 through 11.
Curacao Carnival
The period of Carnival festivities on the island of Curacao runs from February 11 through 13 with the “Gran Marcha” — the Main Parade — taking place on the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday, and the Farewell Parade taking place the Tuesday evening before Ash Wednesday.
Haiti Carnival
In Haiti, Carnival is a time of great joy and intense celebration. The popular Mardi Gras is the end of the Carnival season, which begins on a Sunday and reaches its culmination during the three days prior to Ash Wednesday. It lasts from February 11 through 13.
Santo Domingo Carnival
While Carnival events take place throughout all of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo’s festivals along the Malecón are the largest of them and it occurs every weekend in February. Visitors can expect spectacular parades, costumed performers, dancing, rum drinking, and street food. Masks are worn by the 30,000+ parade participants, symbolizing both good and evil.
