Unique characters, fun parades and snowboarding feature at Rijeka Carnival in Croatia ()
With historical roots from the Venetian Carnival and Austrian civil celebrations, the International Rijeka Carnival festivities have taken on a life of their own. The merriment begins with a pageant to crown the Carnival’s queen. Afterward, the mayor ceremoniously presents the city keys to the “Carnival Mayor.”
Another event during the Carnival season is an annual snowboarding championship. The Carnival Snowboard Session brings the white stuff to the coast. Watch competitors defy gravity with incredible stunts and unwind at the evening’s concerts.
And, of course, there are parades. The Children’s Carnival Parade gives youth the opportunity to join in the fanfare with their own procession. The main event, the International Carnival Parade, turns the city upside down with color, music, dancing and cheer. You never know who you’ll see, from the Smurfs and Ghostbusters to insects, pirates and Vikings. Find out more at www.rijecki-karneval.hr/en.
There’s a saying that “Anyone who is not a fool at Carnival is foolish for the rest of the year.” It’s time for the crazy days — Carnival in Europe is one experience you don’t want to miss!