10 Best Places to Spend Mardi Gras That Aren’t New Orleans

New Orleans is practically synonymous with Mardi Gras. However, the revelrous celebrations that marked the last day before the start of Lent were held in many cities across the United States as well as around the world. While the celebrations take on their own cultural flavors, they are all celebrating the end of the Carnival season. For a fresh but still fun-filled time, check out the best places to celebrate Mardi Gras outside of New Orleans.

Mobile, Alabama

Mardi Gras started in the US in 1703 in Mobile, Alabama. Mardi Gras-related events start as early as November in Alabama. Their rich tradition has grown exponentially over the years. Today you can see more than 40 parades roll through downtown Mobile and visit the Mobile Carnival Museum.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The largest Mardi Gras celebration in the world is held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Celebrations include vibrant costumes, street carnivals, and parades. The marquee of Rio’s Mardi Gras festivities is the Sambodromo Parade, where the country’s top dance schools compete for the Grand Champion title.

Venice, Italy

The Carnival of Venice started in the Middle Ages before being banned around 1800. In 1979, it was reborn as a modern festival that attracted millions of attendees. The Carnival of Venice is famous for its distinct masks. Today’s masks are usually made of gesso, preserving the white look of the plaster used to make the traditional masks. They are hand-painted and decorated with gold leaf and feathers.

Barranquilla, Colombia

The Barranquilla Carnival is shorter than many others, lasting only three days. Beginning on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday, major events include The Battle of the Flowers, the Great Parade, and a Latin orchestra festival. The celebrations end with the ritual burial of Joselito Carnaval.