Discover the truth behind Caribbean Carnival. We debunk five common myths about costumes, culture, and preparation so you can join the road march informed and ready to play mas like a pro.

From the very first whiff of jerk chicken smoke drifting across Blücherplatz to the final bass-heavy riddim rolling down Karl-Marx-Allee, the 2025 Carnival of Cultures had me feeling right at home—thousands of kilometres from the Caribbean, but still deep in the vibez.

This festival is not your typical Carnival: Anguilla turns sea and sand into the heart of the party with its legendary boat races. From August Monday beach sprints to Champion of Champions showdowns, here is how you can play mas in Anguilla like a pro.

If you’re searching for a quick cultural getaway that blends vibrant international parades, Caribbean flavors, and feel-good vibes, let me put you on to the Luton International Carnival.

Sunshine, soca, and sweet bacchanal — it’s time to plan for one of the biggest Caribbean carnivals outside the islands!
If you haven’t been to Miami Carnival, just know: this is not a drill.

So you finally catch the Carnival fever — the feathers, the fetes, the freedom! But then reality check: when you tally up flights, costume, lodging, and parties, that Carnival trip starts looking like a second rent payment (or worse).

When you hear “Carnival,” your mind might jump to sweet Trinidad but hear us out — the Vienna Carnival is bringing that same Caribbean heat right into Austria’s capital, and trust, it’s a whole new level of cultural mash-up!

Get ready to explore the summer carnivals around the globe. From the streets of Toronto to the scenic views of St. Lucia, each carnival on our list is chosen for its rich display of cultural significance, accessibility, family-friendliness, and of course, the abundance of authentic Caribbean food.

So, you’ve decided to jump into the vibrant SXM Carnival at the last minute? No worries! This is the last-minute carnival travel planning guide for you.

As a Caribbean expat residing in Europe, exploring the rich tapestry of cultural festivities on this side of the Atlantic is my new mission. My newest adventure?