It is estimated that Carnival has been celebrated every February for thousands of years. For the first time in the history of this majestic party, it will not take place in 2021. The carnival in the world is suspended because of the Covid. Indeed, it is a holiday that the whole family can attend and that is celebrated in many countries. Italy, Germany, Hungary, USA, Bolivia, Colombia, Argentina and Brazil among others.
A little history of the carnival in the world
The first carnival party took place 5000 years or more ago. Some believe it was in the Roman Empire, others believe it happened in Greece. But it wasn’t until the Middle Ages that they called it carnival. All carnivals that are celebrated in the world have something in common, lots of color, dance, joy and fun.
The origin of the name comes from “carnem levare”, which means “without meat”. This is because the celebration takes place a few days before Ash Wednesday. It is the time of abstinence and fasting. This day begins with Lent, which lasts until Easter Sunday.
Every city celebrates it in its own way
Each of the most important cities in the world has its own character, which is why the celebrations differ from place to place. This is how it is celebrated on all continents. It is impossible to name them all, but each one stands out in its own way.
Carnival and Europe
The most important day in the Tenerife Carnival is the election of the queen. Cadiz has the Chirigotas who offer all their grace and humor in festive comparisons. In Sitges (Barcelona) the sheen of sequins is added to the feathers and makeup of the Catalan community.
Italy is characterized by the Venice Carnival, which is characterized by luxury, elegance and the masks that represent it. Cologne in Germany is extending the celebrations by a week. During a 6-kilometer parade, chocolates and perfumes are thrown from the floats into the public. The Flower Battle takes place in Nice (France), a real spectacle of colors and flavors.
America and its carnivals
In South America, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Barranquilla in Colombia, La Paz in Bolivia, Montevideo in Uruguay and Entre Ríos in Argentina celebrate Carnival with all rhythms and colors. Hundreds of people take part in the preparation of the parade floats and the costumes they themselves will wear throughout the year. In America every state has a big Mardi Gras party. But one of the most outstanding is New Orleans because the celebration takes place to the rhythm of jazz.
The governments of each country decided to suspend the celebrations. It will be the first time in history that Carnival does not take place in the world. The containment measures due to the covid force to make this determination canceling the tourist movement generated by this data. After such a difficult year as 2020, the spark of carnival would have delighted all hearts. We have to wait until 2022.
