Goa Carnival is back and here’s what you need to know

The lively Goa Carnival is back and we are here to give you the festival deets. Goa Carnival 2023 will be celebrated from February 18-21 in four major locations in Goa – Panjim, Mapusa, Margao and Vasco.

Also read: This is why Goa is a perfect trip in February

If you have never attended Goa’s famous annual carnival, you are missing out on a lot of fun. The carnival is when the whole of Goa breaks into music and dance and it’s a sight to see.


This year, the carnival falls on the long weekend (Saturday to Tuesday). What better time to experience this lively cultural event?



The Goa Carnival starts with colourful processions in several places in Goa. The one in Panjim is the grandest of them all. Elaborate and creative floats are followed by performances like dance and skits. The carnival is a great event to witness different aspects of Goan culture. From cultural extravaganzas like folk dances and costume parades to Goan cuisines and lifestyle, you will get to see them all at the carnival.



The carnival is led by Carnival King Momo, followed by a long trail of musicians, dancers, acrobats and people dressed in colourful and interesting costumes. Once the procession is over, you can head over to the exhibition venues to see some of the finest examples of Goan art and culture.


Fun and party continues as several places in Goa host grand masquerade balls. Don’t be surprised to see masked revellers out on the streets. It’s all a part of the carnival. The carnival is also the best time to gorge on Goan delicacies as most of the eateries in Goa will serve the local special dishes.



One most important thing to keep in mind – the entire Goa is in a celebratory mood so expect long traffic jams. So if you are planning to explore multiple carnival venues, start early in the day. The carnival takes place just before Lent begins so you can expect to see a lot of revelry before the sober and sombre 40 days of Lent begins.


Goa Carnival 2023
When: February 18 - 21, 2023
Where: Panjim, Mapusa, Margao and Vasco
Entry fee: No entry free for the carnival; INR 100 for the Red & Black Dance.