[Zoom-in] Cities, Carnivals and Festivals
With colourful confetti in the sky and the rhythmic sounds of drums and samba, the Carnival season has officially begun.
Cities are transformed into vibrant celebrations, with people dancing, dressing up and celebrating until dawn.
And the festivities are far from over! We’re sharing five upcoming Carnival festivals taking place in Norway, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and Hungary to keep the festivities going!
World Carnival 2026 / Verdenskarneval 2026
25 May - 07 June 2026 - Oslo, Norway
World Carnival highlights Norway’s rich folk culture and dance traditions. For the first time, they are expanding their festival from one day to two weeks and opening it up to both national and international participation!
This year’s theme is community, explored through dance, music, and folk culture as universal expressions of belonging, identity, and interaction. The programme will feature a spectacular World Folk Parade, outdoor and indoor dance performances, concerts, dance evenings, workshops, panel discussions and more.
Check out more information here.
Photo: via Facebook
Toulouse Carnival 2026
14 March - 21 June 2026 - Toulouse, France
Every year, the Toulouse Carnival takes over the neighbourhoods and transforms them into colourful places where people of different ages and communities come together to celebrate.
From the Children’s Parade to the Grand Parade of the Cuckolds, there is something for everyone, with events running until mid-June. All are welcome to join, watch the beautiful parades, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
More information here.
Photo: via Instagram.
Carnival of Cultures 2026
22 - 25 May 2026 - Berlin, Germany
Every year, the Carnival of Cultures celebrates belonging and diversity in the heart of Berlin. It is a joyful celebration of an open, intercultural society, where people from many different backgrounds and cultures come together to share their passions, ideas, and creativity with the public.
This year marks its 30th edition, accompanied by a special exhibition starting in early May that offers insights and perspectives on the history and spirit of the Carnival. Stay tuned for more upcoming details on their page.
More information here.
Photo: via Facebook
Edinburgh Festival Carnival 2026
04 - 12 July 2026 - Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Every July, the Edinburgh Festival Carnival transforms Edinburgh’s West Princes Street Gardens into a joyful, inclusive platform that unites people through shared culture and celebration.
It is the largest multicultural celebration of the city and brings together local and international artists for an inspiring display of costumes, dance and music. Through the festival, the richness of global traditions is showcased, highlighting the creativity of communities across Edinburgh.
More information could be found here.
Photo: via Facebook
Savaria Historical Carnival 2026
13 - 16 August 2026 - Szombathely, Hungary
If you are looking for a Summer Carnival adventure, then the Savaria Historical Carnival is the place for you. Inspired by Pannonia’s ancient past, it offers 30 free Carnival venues and nearly 350 programmes, with a range of unique cultural, musical and authentic traditional events.
Visitors will be invited to participate to a grand, bygone era by travelling backwards in time and slipping into costumes to join the colourful carnival whirl.
More information will be available soon on their website here.
Photo: via Facebook
