One of the major attractions in Goa is the Goa Carnival.

Each year in February, Goa comes alive in all its beauty and splendor during the carnival, as it is one of the most important celebrations in Goa since the 18th century.

The Carnival is meant to be a time for feasting, drinking and merry making. Throughout the city, huge parades are organized with bands, floats, balls and dances in the evenings.

The festival continues for 3 days and is celebrated throughout Goa. People of all religions take part in the festivities and enjoy thoroughly.

The Carnival is exclusively Goan and is not celebrated anywhere else in the country. The Goans initiate the Carnival with the display of colorful floats.

Troupes of masked revelers who take immense pleasure in attiring themselves in stunning costumes, sing and dance in delight to dynamic music that is usually performed live by famous singers and artists.

In order to encourage some liveliness to the Carnival and give the Goans some credit, the best floats are given generous prizes. The parade concludes with the red-and-black dance at Panjim's Club National.

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