The Top 10 Mardi Gras Destinations Worth The Trip
Looking for a epic Mardi Gras destination worth the trip? These top 10 Mardi Gras destinations will make you want to party and dance all year-round.
1. New Orleans, Louisiana
Mardi Gras has become a major celebration all around the world, especially in New Orleans, Louisiana. This annual celebration will allow you to indulge in the impressive festivities and parades throughout New Orleans. Try watching the parades in Uptown, or exploring the boutique lined streets, renowned restaurants, and extravagant mansions on Bourbon Street. Don’t forget to try the legendary beignets at Cafe Du Monde.
*image credit Lyamariella via Instagram2. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Carnival Rio De Janerio is a Brazilian Celebration filled with timeless culture, dazzling parades, unforgettable street dancing, and other festivities. Being one of the largest festivals in the world, Rio De Janeiro is known for its extravagant festivities and buzzing nightlife. If you’re looking to spice up your dance moves, try visiting one of Rio’s notable Samba schools. This is one of the best Mardi Gras destinations!
3. Goa, India
The Goa Carnival is India’s version of Mardi Gras, hosting vibrant parades, street dancing, and extravagant costumes. Beautiful floats and live music fill the streets of the city of Panjim, inviting many to join their lively celebrations. If you’re planning a trip to Goa, be sure to get a head start in planning.
*image credit EmmaChamberlain via Instagram4. Venice, Italy
Mardi Gras or better known as Carnevale in Italy, is one of the biggest celebrations in Italy. During this time, Italy is filled with vibrant, festive colors, mascaraed balls, Venetian masks, and extravagant street performances. Take a break from your everyday life and participate in the festivities in the days leading up to Lent.
* Image credit Taramilktea via Instagram5. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec’s Winter Carnival is a 17-day event based on the French Mardi Gras traditions. This massive festival includes giant ice sculptures, canoe races on ice, bead tossing, and other Mardi Gras traditions. Unlike, New Orleans traditional purple, gold, and green colors, the Winter Carnival’s timeless tradition are red clothes, and arrow sashes. Get ready to have the time of your life at this Mardi Gras Destination.
*Image credit TourismeQuebec via Instagram
6. Nice, France
Mardi Gras in France is widely celebrated throughout many cities especially in Nice, France. This 12-day festival is bursting with parade floats, and flamboyant costumes. The widely-known Bataille de Fleurs (Battle of Flowers) features glorious parade floats, who have people throw fresh aromatic flowers into the crowds.
7. Trinidad and Tobago, Port of Spain
The Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is an annual two-day celebration taking place on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. This festival is widely known for its dazzling colors, and grand costumes. Indulge in the rich culture this Caribbean celebration has to offer with days filled with partying, and dancing.
8. Binche, Belgium
The city of Binche celebrates Carnival unlike many other cities out there. With massive white ostrich plume hats, and wax masks, this version of Mardi Gras is a sight to behold. Spectators of the parade are handed oranges, cherish them as they are considered to be gifts during the festivities.
* Image credit Laurenwhitephotos4 via Instagram9. Cayman Islands
Carnival Batabano is Cayman’s version of Mardi Gras. During this time, the streets of Cayman are filled with lively music, local food, pageants, and parades. Your afternoon will never be dull with energetic performers dancing throughout Harbour Drive. When you’re not experiencing the lively Caribbean culture, try relaxing on one of the many beaches this beauty has to offer.
10. Sinaloa, Mexico
This oceanfront festival is one of the largest carnivals held in Mexico. Occurring five days before Ash Wednesday, Mazatlan Carnival features brass bands, delicious food, fireworks, and colorful costumes. This is one of the best Mardi Gras destinations!
* Image credit Carolyneigama
