Goa Carnival Origins:

The origins and nature of the carnival can be traced to the hedonistic feasts of ancient Rome and Greece. These carivals started in the Spanish and Portugese colonies, and gradually became known for their singing, dancing and drinking. The carnival is presided over by King Momo, who on the opening day orders his subjects to party. Hotel bookings must be done in advance for carnival as the festival attracts thousands of tourists.

King Momo: or the king of Chaos, is a character derived from the Greek god Momus, who is the god of satire. He is usually depicted removing a mask.

Goa Carnival  Tips:

Join the Party: The good news is that you don’t need tickets for the carnival! Everyone is invited. So get your glad rags on, dig out some nice comfy shoes and get ready to party Goa-style for three days straight. Since the planning has already begun, it looks like being the party of the year, and an experience you will never forget.

Carnival in Goa: is an old Portuguese tradition, introduced to Goa about 500 years ago. The celebration remains vastly popular even today and retains a Portuguese flavour, even though it is now celebrated by people from all walks of life. In Goa, it is pronounced as ‘Carnaval’ in keeping with its roots. Carnaval is held in the 3-4 days preceding the Lenten season, which is traditionally a period of 6 weeks before Easter when the people fast, or abstain from meat and alcohol to commemorate the 40 days that Jesus spent fasting in the desert. This then was a period of final celebrations, one last humongous party, before the Lenten penitence began.