The Top 10 Carnivals in Europe

Get your finest costumes ready! Carnival season is about to start throughout Europe. From the streets of Cologne to the masquerade balls of Venice, get set for a season of fantasy and fun.

1. Cologne Carnival

This vibrant event spans the six days leading up to Ash Wednesday, with children playing a central role as schools and kindergartens organise their own parades. Established in 1823, the carnival begins on Thursday with the Women’s Carnival, starting early in the morning and culminating in Altstadt (Old Town) and the popular Südstadt district. The dress code? The more eccentric and extravagant, the better! The first carnival parade marches through Cologne's old town on Weiberfastnacht.

The highlight of the carnival, established in 1823, is the Rosenmontag parade, featuring floats, dance groups and bands traversing an eight-km route, distributing buckets of sweets and flowers to the enthusiastic crowds. The event concludes with the arrival of the ‘D'r Prinz kütt’ (the prince).

Kölle Alaaf! (Long live Cologne!)

When: 27 February to 5 March 2025

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2. Venice Carnival

The Venice Carnival traces its origins to 1162, following a triumphant victory by the Venetian Republic over Ulrich II von Treven, the Patriarch of Aquileia. To celebrate, the people of Venice gathered in St Mark's Square, beginning a tradition that continues to delight and dazzle today.

Renowned for its masquerade balls and historical re-enactments, Venice carnival is all about elaborate costumes and, of course, masks! Children are encouraged to participate by dressing up in fantastic outfits and wearing self-decorated masks. Tip: wear comfortable shoes and explore the city's streets to fully immerse yourself in the festivities.

When: 22 February to 4 March 2025

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3. Nice Carnival

Going strong for 152 years, this is one of France’s most spectacular carnivals and highlights in the Côte d’Azur’s winter calendar. Music bands and performers from around the world gather to perform at this colourful event, which includes the popular flower parades featuring elaborately decorated floats adorned with thousands of locally grown flowers including roses, carnations and gerberas.

Families will love the carnival parade with activities designed in this year’s theme, ‘The King of the Oceans' who will rule the city throughout the carnival, leaving his mark on every parade, performance and event. Expect floats, street performers and puppets galore!

When: 12 February to 2 March 2025

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4. Cádiz Carnival

This old port town in the southwest of France transforms into one of Europe’s biggest parties with street performers, floats and market stalls. Dating back the 16th century, Cádiz Carnival, one of Spain’s most vibrant festivals full of humour, art and music.

Local singer groups, the 'chirigotas' and 'comparsas,' perform throughout the town alongside impromptu street performers. Kids love the theatrical shows, music, fireworks and fancy dress. The children’s parade features smaller floats designed for younger participants and families usually dress up together.

When: 27 February to 8 March 2025

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5. Basel Carnival

The Swiss town of Basel hosts a three-day carnival each year which starts on the Monday after Ash Wednesday. Basel Carnival is included in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity thanks to its rich history and unique traditions. Switzerland’s largest carnival kicks off with thousands of costumed pipers and drummers walking through the streets with decorated lanterns.

Expect music, performances, colour and masks. The carnival’s main parades, called Cortèges, take place on Monday and Wednesday afternoons. Children’s Day at the Basel Carnival (known as Kinderfasnacht) takes place on the Tuesday with a special children’s parade where children can dress up in colourful costumes and masks.

When: 10 March to 12 March 2025

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6. Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival

This carnival dating back to the 17th century has an African theme for 2025. Ranked as the second-largest carnival in the world, after Rio de Janeiro’s, it’s known for its size, vibrancy and inclusive spirit.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife carnival has plenty of family-friendly activities from crafts to floats. The Children’s Parade is a great excuse for kids to dress up in costumes and enjoy the colourful floats, music and performances. The Children’s Carnival Queen Election provides a taste of the larger festival’s grown-up contest.

Kids can get involved in workshops to make masks, costumes and crafts. There are many street parties that allow kids to dance, sing and generally enjoy festivities. Don’t miss the carnival funfair, local bands and array of street performers walking through the town.

When: 28 February to 9 March 2025

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7. Binche Carnival

The Binche Carnival is Belgium's biggest carnival. A UNESCO-listed event, the carnival is famous for the Gilles – men in elaborate traditional costumes who throw oranges into the crowd. This centuries-old tradition is believed to bring good luck and kids always enjoy it! The carnival features huge parades with oversized masks, bright costumes and colourful floats.

Kids can take part in the celebration too, with plenty of costumes and masks to try out at the festival’s interactive areas. The colourful street performances are perfect for enthralling kids of all ages. Families love getting dressed up and enjoying the carnival’s quirky charm.

When: 15 to 18 February 2025

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8. Loulé Carnival

Located in the Algarve, Portugal, Loulé Carnival offers an atmosphere where both kids and adults can enjoy the fun. Loulé is known for its artisans and crafts from basketry to crochet and its creativity is reflected in the quality of the costumes, floats and theatrical performances. Families with young children can take part in workshops, where they can create their own carnival masks or participate in other fun craft activities.

This is a good way for kids to get hands-on and feel a part of the festival. The carnival also has family-friendly parades, where participants dress up in costumes and walk through the streets. Loulé Carnival is an immersive experience for all ages.

When: 15 to 18 February 2025

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Images courtesy of Düsseldorf Tourismus GmbH. Left photo by Joerg Letz; right photo by U. Otte.

9. Düsseldorf Carnival

The Fasnacht Carnival in Düsseldorf is a key moment in the German winter. The highlight for children is the annual children's parade, where youngsters dressed in colourful costumes and march through the streets alongside musicians, dancers and amazing floats. Kids can also enjoy mask-making workshops, where they get creative and design their own festive masks, a tradition that’s central to the carnival.

The streets are lined with performers, clowns and puppets. For younger kids, there are also carnival rides and games to enjoy, ensuring the little ones stay entertained. Indulge in the stalls offering sweet treats, snacks and delicious hot chocolate.

When: 27 February to 3 March 2025

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10. Viareggio Carnival

One of Italy's most popular carnivals began in 1873 when locals organised a parade of decorated floats along the seaside promenade. Over the years, this tradition has evolved into a spectacular showcase of craftsmanship and satire along the Tuscan coastline – and an event that kids love.

Famous for its towering papier-mâché floats, the carnival artfully represents political and cultural figures, offering a creative and entertaining perspective on contemporary issues. Families enjoy parades, concerts, fireworks and a fun party atmosphere.

When: 3 February to 25 February 2025

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