Throughout the Catholic world Carnival is a big celebration with the purpose of getting all the craziness out of people's systems so they'll be ready for the solemnity of Lent. Mexico is no exception and Carnival celebrations in Mexico are some of the most exuberant you'll find anywhere.
Just as the dates for Easter vary from year to year, so do the dates for Carnaval. Here are the Carnival dates for upcoming years:
2009 - February 19 to 24
2010 - February 11 to 16
2011 - March 3 to March 9
2012 - February 14 to 21
Though celebrations vary by destination, the biggest Carnivals usually begin with the Quema del Mal Humor, or burning of ill humor. This is usually an effigy of an unpopular political figure and this symbolically represents the commencement of merriment, leaving behind everyday worries and concerns. This kicks off the festivities, including the crowning of the Carnival Queen, and the King - sometimes referred to as the Rey Feo, or "Ugly King." There are parades, live entertainment, dances, and carnival games.
The biggest Carnaval celebrations take place in Veracruz and Mazatlan, but other celebrations take place throughout the country. See our list of the top places to celebrate Carnival in Mexico.
