Sunny Goa meets the most carefree and colorful holiday of winter.
In early February, India’s premier resort will host a traditional carnival. The four days before Catholic Lent will take place under the unfailing slogan “Drink, eat and be merry!” The festivities will cover the entire state, but will be greatest in the capital city of Panaji and other major cities like Margao, Vasco da Gama and Mapusa. Goan Carnival does not look as impressive as the world-famous festivals in Venice, Rio, or New Orleans, but for India, it is an event of the utmost importance.
The main event of Goa Carnival, the parade down the central street of Panandja, falls on the final day of the festival. The extravagant procession of dancers and musicians is led by the host of the festival, the good-natured King Momo, seated on a luxurious carnival platform. In the evening, the festival reaches its climax in the center of the city’s park, Garcia de Horta. Here unfolds a grand dance party, the Red & Black Dance, with the obligatory “red and white” dress code.
