Get set for Goa Carnaval, from February 14 to 17

PANJIM - Goa’s hot and happening festival, Carnaval 2015, the only one of its kind in India, is set to dazzle with colour, costumes, foot-tapping music and a soul-stirring extravaganza.

The annual extravaganza – Goa Carnaval 2015 – is scheduled to be held from February 14 to 17, 2015. This time, the fun-filled, four-day event coincides with the Valentine’s Day (February 14) weekend and this will reflect in the Carnaval too, as the themes will revolve around ‘Cupid and Love’.

Goa Tourism is also working around themes like ‘Love Goa’ and ‘Celebrate with Goa’.

King Momo will pronounce his reign over Goa for three days at the first parade in the capital city on Saturday, 14th February 2015 and his entourage will be a sight to behold.

The spectacular and impressive traditional Carnaval float parades in other major cities of Margao, Vasco, Mapusa and Ponda will be held during the four-day festivities. Cultural programs and dances will also be organized all across the State and revelers, tourists and Goans will feel the Carnaval spirit flowing through their veins.

The Carnaval was introduced by the Portuguese who ruled Goa for over four centuries and the festival is a legacy of several hundred years of Portuguese rule. From quiet celebrations about seven to eight decades ago, the Carnaval has grown over the years to be India’s biggest cultural event drawing lakhs of tourists to Goa.

And the best time to enjoy Goa in all its glamour and gusto is Carnaval.

This year too, Goa Tourism is aiming to ensure that Carnaval gives tourists the essence of traditional Goa. Brass bands, colourful decor, and Carnaval caricatures will be prominently displayed at all parade venues and across the state.

The annual Food and Cultural Festival is also scheduled from February 13 to 17, 2015 and this will showcase some culinary heirlooms of Goa alongside modern cuisine in the state, to give tourists a glimpse into the gastronomic variety available here. Cultural programmes, music, dance performances, Goan folklore and culture will be prominently showcased during the Food and Culture Fest, which promises to add more spice to the celebrations.

Goa Tourism and Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) have set the stage for Carnaval and the Food and Cultural Festival and Goa is already abuzz over the two mega events to be held in February.

The King Momo contest will also be announced shortly and this year Goa Tourism is expecting it to be a keenly contested affair.

sourced:traveldailynews.asia