Carnival is a time of unimaginable transformations. Bright costumes, general rejoicing, fiery dances and jokes — the holiday sweeps everyone into a sea of fun and beauty, and February is the high time to celebrate it.
Originating in Europe, the festive processions quickly spread around the world, and each country's carnival has its own history and unique style.
The carnival in Venice, Italy, is considered one of the most popular in the world, characterized by mystery and mysticism, while the carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is famous for its unforgettable show and fantastic costumes. Its main highlight is the parade of samba schools.
German Cologne also organizes numerous festivities, fancy dress parties, musical performances and fancy dress balls, while several months before the holiday the organizers come up with the carnival slogan - the song with which the procession will take place, and its three main characters.
The festival in Nice, France, is famous for its flower processions and giant papier-mâché dolls that weigh up to two tonnes and tower eight to twelve meters above the floats.
Have a look at Sputnik Africa's gallery. Feel the festive spirit of carnival in different parts of the world!