Every year, four days in the middle of February marks the Goa Carnaval. The colourful and lively state adorns even more character by displaying ‘floats’ across different towns and cities. There are a number of cultural programs and street performances that are exhibited with social messages.

This year, the Carnaval was held from February 14 to February 17 and was themed ‘Goa and Love’. It travelled across Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa on their respective days. I caught glimpses of the floats at the capital city on the first day and was happy to see very many of them put across positive messages on environment awareness.

I happened to stop by Samba Square in Panjim one night with a friend and I thoroughly enjoyed the live music, the food and alcohol stalls in the venue and the enormous crowd adding to the energy of the place.

It is believed that the Carnaval was originally brought in by the Portuguese in the state and since then, it has only got bigger and louder. It is organised by Goa Tourism every year and people from each taluka of the state come out and participate.

Good to know: The floats parade through assigned towns, each day. This year it started with Panjim on day 1 and continued to Margao, Vasco and Mapusa, respectively on the following days. Early evenings are usually a good time to go. Vasco is probably the most crowded and avoidable. The traffic was well-managed in the Goan capital, though if you have other plans, it’s always good to avoid the Carnaval routes.

Dates: February 14-17, 2015

Will you visit this colourful parade next year in Goa?