The most famous carnivals of the world( Top-5)

Carnival is an enchanting spectacle, exciting atmosphere and bubbling fun. By the way, the very word "carnival" is derived from "carne" and "vale", which means farewell to meat. After all, the first carnivals held on the eve of the great post.

In today's selection we offer a look at the most famous carnivals of the world .By the way, they all pass in the winter, destroying the idea that the cold months are created for boredom and despondency.

5. Carnival in New Orleans, USA

Carnival traditions in this American city were brought in the XIX century by French students. The holiday quickly took root and became annual. A notable feature of the carnival procession in New Orleans is the custom to throw beads, toys and coins from decorated platforms. For luck, you should immediately step on the small thing thrown a heel, so in the crowd begins a real crush. Well, the main trophy is a coconut thrown from the cortege.

4. Carnival in Nice, France

For the first time the carnival took place in this coastal city in 1294.The brightest moments of the holiday are a parade of flowers and a parade of light. Carnival in Nice is famous for its fireworks, to which carnival communities do not spare money. The national festival lasts for 15 days. By the way, the entrance to the General Masenna Square, where the main shows are held, free only for spectators in carnival costumes, the rest have to pay 40 euros.

3. Carnival in Cologne, Germany

The carnival takes place in February, but preparations for it begin much earlier. Every year on November 11 at 11 o'clock and 11 minutes "carnival meetings" begin their work. They approve the program of the future holiday. But during the carnival, the solid and slightly phlegmatic Germans suddenly change beyond recognition. The culmination of the holiday is Pink Monday. On this day through the streets is a festive procession, during which it is customary to present to the public the figures of papier-mache, ridiculing politicians.

2. Venice Carnival, Italy

The beginning of the carnival falls on the "fat Tuesday" - the Catholic carnival. The first mention of the Venetian carnival date back to 1094.While the carnival is lasting, 30 thousand people come to Venice daily. The total number of tourists reaches half a million. The most famous tradition of carnival are Venetian masks - they have become a real symbol of the city on the water.

1. Carnival in Rio, Brazil

The Brazilian carnival is the most famous in the world .It takes place in the last weeks of February - in the midst of the South American summer. Carnival in Rio lasts 4 days, and look at it every year more than a million tourists come. Folk festivities with dances, fireworks and songs are held all over the country. The most spectacular event of the carnival is the parade of Samba schools. Colorful carts and dancers in beautiful costumes make a path to music along the 600-meter "sambodrome".The result of the procession is the choice of the best Brazilian school of Samba.