Carnival 2025: Dates and best parades to see at this very special time of year

When is Carnival in 2025?

Everybody looks forward to Carnival with its spectacular parades and colourful parties all over the world. The exact dates for these festivities vary from place to place, but it’s usually celebrated sometime between February and March.

In 2025, the main Carnival events will take place from 26 February to 4 March, ending the second month of the year in the best possible way!

On which days are the main parades usually held?

Most of the biggest parades can be seen during the run-up to Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of Lent. However, depending on the place, the dates for the most famous parades may vary.

Keep reading to find out more and make a note in your diary!

• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: the world’s largest samba party takes place on the Sunday and Monday before Ash Wednesday.
• Venice, Italy: on the weekends leading up to Ash Wednesday, and on the actual day, thousands of masked revellers take to the streets of this Italian city.
• New Orleans, USA (Mardi Gras): if you want to party near the Bayou, make sure you get there for the day before Ash Wednesday.
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain: one of Spain’s most popular carnivals starts its parades on the days leading up to Shrove Tuesday, which continue on the day itself.
• Barranquilla, Colombia: celebrations take place over the weekend and on the Monday before Ash Wednesday.

The world’s best Carnival parades for 2025

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival is famous for its exuberant parade in the sambadrome. This spectacular event brings together the best samba schools competing with dazzling costumes, impressive floats, and fascinating dance routines. The most important dates for 2025 are 2 and 3 March.

To get the most out of it, it is advisable to book tickets in advance and arrive early to find a good spot where you can dance your socks off!

Venice, Italy

The Venice Carnival is a magical experience that transports visitors to another era with its elegant masked parades and events steeped in history. Travel to the Renaissance and then come back to tell the tale!

The main events will take place from 15 February to 4 March 2025. Don’t miss the famous “Volo dell’Angelo” and masked balls in historic palaces. To experience it to the fullest, hire a traditional costume and join the party in the streets and canals of Venice.

New Orleans, USA (Mardi Gras)

Full of colours, music, and iconic floats, New Orleans is synonymous with Carnival. On 4 March, the city wakes up to parades and parties where tradition and modernity go hand-in-hand. Don’t forget to catch some good luck beads and explore the festivities in the French Quarter. To enjoy it to the fullest, arrive early and find a good spot on the parade route.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Holding its own amongst the international parades, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is one of the world’s biggest and liveliest events. From 20 February to 1 March 2025, the island is transformed into a stage for joy and fun. The rondallas, troupes, and street musicians compete for attention in colourful parades that culminate with the Coso Apoteosis. For a unique experience, take part in the Noche de la Sardina (Night of the Sardine) and enjoy the events in Plaza de España.

Barranquilla, Colombia

Barranquilla’s Carnival is an explosion of Caribbean culture and tradition. From 22 to 25 February 2025, the city celebrates with the Battle of the Flowers parade, where traditional music and dances come to life. If you’re planning on taking part, make sure you wear comfortable clothes and a good pair of dancing shoes. Don’t miss the Grand Parade events and tropical music concerts.

PortAventura, one of the best places to enjoy Carnival

At PortAventura World, we join in with the Carnival celebrations with unique events and impressive shows. From 28 February to 4 March 2025, the park will be filled with confetti, colour, and happiness, as it showcases themed parades, live performances, shows, entertainment, and activities for the whole family, where Carnival costumes add even more magic to the experience. To get the most out of our Carnival, buy tickets now and plan your visit using our handy app so you don’t miss any of the attractions or the Carnival shows.

Tips for getting the most out of the parades

Travel planning

Since Carnival events draw massive crowds, it is essential to book accommodation and transport well in advance to secure a place that is both comfortable and accessible.

Tips to avoid the masses

Research the best places to watch the parades and arrive early to secure a good spot. Avoid the most crowded areas and consider taking something comfortable to sit on.

What to bring to Carnival

To make sure you fully look the part, wear a colourful costume and festive accessories. Don’t forget to bring water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the most unforgettable moments!

For our part, we will work tirelessly so that you and your family can enjoy the Carnival at PortAventura Park of your dreams in our parks and hotels.

Batucadas and floats aplenty, let the parade begin!