The sedating tract of Goa is dotted with many churches, beaches and temples. It is an emerald in the west coast line of India where sun liberally flirts with sand on beaches. Diversionary mongrel and fascinatingly exclusive, Goa will just flabbergast you. Goa is not only about beaches and adventurous water sports but also about festive celebrations. Among the many and various vibrant feasts and festivals that are celebrated in Goa, the Goa Carnival is the most eagerly awaited event. The 'Carnival’ is exclusive and unique to Goa, and was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled over Goa for over five hundred years.
February is concomitant of jubilation because of Goa Carnival. Feasting, Merry making, boozing commemorates the Goa Carnival just before the austere 40 days of Lent. Huge parades are organized throughout the state with bands, dances and floats out all night on the streets, and grand balls held in the evenings. The carnival concludes with the famous red-and-black dance held by the Club National in Panajim on the final day. Enjoying yourself or seeing other enjoy, both are equally exciting. There is enthusiasm and happiness all around. A three day Goa carnival is what hooks everyone for this is something Goans await anxiously the entire year. Such celebration is unknown in any other part of the country and with time the Goa carnival has become not just a delight to Goans but a major tourist attraction of Goa as well.
Though, essentially a Christian festival, with passing of age all communities have begun to participate in this carnival. Preparations start much in advance for three day non stop fun and excitement. And once it starts, all Goans do and think is music, dance and merrymaking. The fun, the frolic, the soothing climate - few can resist of not being a part of it. Old and young, kids and adults, everyone gets into this party mood. Street Plays, songs, dances, and unrehearsed farces mocking the establishment are performed before an enthusiastic, responsive audience. Floats depicting popular lullabies and nursery rhymes make a whimsical and colorful sight on the streets. It assumes a unique form of creative spontaneity wherein folk songs/Cantars are sung from door to door in villages by troupes of mainly Christian peasants inviting everyone to join in the celebration.
Goa comes alive in all its beauty and splendor during the carnival, as it is one of the most important celebrations in Goa. A perfect run away characterized by festivity fervor. Whole Goa engulfed in festivity and gaiety will make you happy and elated.