Panjim, 18th February 2026 – The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, successfully concluded the vibrant celebrations of Goa Carnaval 2026, which unfolded across Panaji, Porvorim, Margao, Vasco, Mapusa and Morjim, drawing enthusiastic participation from residents and visitors alike.
Over the course of the multi-city celebrations, the streets of Goa transformed into spectacular avenues of colour, music and movement. The festivities witnessed overwhelming crowds at every centre, with thousands of domestic and international tourists gathering to experience one of India’s most iconic cultural festivals. A significant number of international visitors were seen attending the celebrations, many witnessing the grandeur of Carnaval for the first time, while others returned to relive its unmistakable festive spirit.
The Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Rohan A. Khaunte, remarked “The successful conduct of Goa Carnaval 2026 across multiple centres reflects the collective efforts of our artists, communities and government agencies. The large turnout of domestic and international visitors highlights Goa’s strong global appeal and our ability to host cultural events of this scale with efficiency and vibrancy. From the creativity of the floats to the discipline in event management, Carnaval 2026 has set a strong benchmark. The coordinated efforts of all stakeholders ensured that the celebrations were vibrant, safe and memorable for everyone”
The Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added “Goa Carnaval continues to evolve as a flagship cultural offering that strengthens our positioning as a year-round destination. The enthusiastic participation of international visitors and the overwhelming response at every centre reaffirm our vision of promoting experiential tourism while empowering local talent and communities. Events like Carnaval play a pivotal role in showcasing Goa’s cultural richness to the world.”
The parades at each location were led by the much-loved King Momo, whose ceremonial proclamation set the tone for days of celebration and merriment. Elaborately designed floats rolled through the streets, reflecting themes ranging from Goa’s cultural heritage and environmental awareness to social messaging and contemporary creativity. Each float was a testament to the imagination and craftsmanship of local artists, institutions and community groups.
Traditional folk performances, cultural dances, live music, street acts and choreographed performances captivated audiences of all ages. The seamless blend of heritage and modern expression created an immersive experience, reinforcing Goa’s identity as a destination that offers far more than scenic beauty, it offers living culture.
The scale and diversity of participation across all centres underscored the inclusive nature of the festival. Families, youth, senior citizens, tourists and local communities came together in a shared celebration of joy and cultural pride. The Department ensured robust arrangements in terms of crowd management, infrastructure support, safety measures and visitor facilitation, contributing to a smooth and secure experience throughout the festivities.
Goa Carnaval 2026 once again demonstrated the State’s ability to host large-scale cultural festivities that seamlessly combine tradition, tourism and community participation. As the curtains close on this year’s celebrations, the festival leaves behind lasting memories for visitors and reinforces Goa’s standing as a premier cultural destination on the global tourism map.