beat the brochure

Mention the world carnival and immediately you will get an image of a poorly constructed float hastily put together by the local church group hobbling along the high street once a year. But is this really what carnivals are like all over the world? Luckily, there are bigger and better ones out there where whole streets, districts, towns and even countries come to a standstill during carnival time.

But where are the best carnivals and what makes them better then the local annual effort?

Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival, Tenerife

Anyone who has been on the Spanish island of Tenerife during February will more then likely have come across the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival. For seven nights the streets of the islands capital Santa Cruz are awash with brightly coloured costumes and lively carnival-goers. The carnival was once banned, but the locals have really made up for this by partying harder each and every year. Tenerife holidays simply must coincide with one of the worlds best carnivals!

Rio Carnival, Brazil

The Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro is synonymous with carnivals and therefore it will come as no surprise that the Rio carnival is one of the most famous and spectacular in the known world. The centre of the city is packed with over 600,000 people during its peak – and this is just one area where celebrations take place! Expect to see scantily clad woman partying like it’s 1999.

Mardi Gras, New Orleans

During Madri Gras, New Orleans turns into one of the most colourful, noisy and friendly cities on earth. The earliest mention of the festival comes in 1781, so this carnival has been taking place every year for well over 200 years, making it one of the most historic, famous and attended carnivals in existence. It is known as the ‘Greatest Free Show on Earth’, so what is stopping you taking in all the floats, shows and dancers that parade through the Deep South each year?

Notting Hill Carnival, UK

We couldn’t compile a list of the world’s best carnivals without mentioning our very own Notting Hill. This is the second largest carnival in the whole world, with well over a million people stopping by and joining in the fun. There is a distinctive Caribbean flavour so if you like a bit of calypso; this is the carnival for you.

Got a favourite carnival which you think should have been included on this list? Vent your fury by leaving a comment below.

(Thanks to Buzztrips for the photograph of the Santa Cruz carnival girls.)