Goa is all set to come alive with colour, music, and celebration as the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, prepares to host the much-awaited Goa Carnaval 2026, one of the State’s most iconic and vibrant cultural festivals. Celebrated with great enthusiasm by locals and visitors alike, Carnaval continues to be a powerful symbol of Goa’s rich heritage, inclusivity, and festive spirit.
The official announcement of Goa Carnaval 2026 was made in the presence of senior officials including Managing Director of GTDC Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Dhiraj Wagle, Assistant Director Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, General Manager GTDC Shri Gavin Dias, Deputy General Manager (Hotels & Marketing) Shri Deepak Narvekar, and the iconic King Momo, Shri Cedric Da Costa, who ceremonially ushered in the festive mood.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said that Goa Carnaval is a celebration rooted in joy, cultural pride, and togetherness. He highlighted that spreading the festivities across multiple locations will encourage wider community participation while offering visitors an authentic Goan experience. He added that Carnaval 2026 reflects the State’s vision of responsible and regenerative tourism, celebrating traditions while caring for people and the environment.
Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik emphasised that Carnaval is one of Goa’s most vibrant cultural expressions. He stated that the 2026 edition has been carefully planned to ensure wider reach, cleanliness, safety, and a high-quality festive experience through well-coordinated celebrations across the State.
Detailing the scale of preparations, GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar informed that Goa Carnaval 2026 is being organised with an overall outlay of approximately ₹1.53 crore. This includes ₹48 lakh allocated for prize money to encourage creativity and participation, and ₹1.04 crore towards infrastructure and logistics across all centres. Centre-wise allocations include ₹19 lakh for Porvorim and ₹16 lakh for Morjim, while Panaji, Margao, Vasco, and Mapusa have been allocated ₹29.35 lakh for prize money and infrastructure, ensuring uniform standards of quality and visitor experience across locations.
The celebrations will begin with a Curtain Raiser on February 13, 2026, at Porvorim, followed by the ceremonial flag-off of the grand Carnaval parade in Panaji on February 14. The festivities will move to Margao on February 15, Vasco on February 16, and will culminate on February 17, 2026, with grand celebrations at Mapusa and Morjim, taking the spirit of Carnaval across North Goa.
Adding to the festive excitement, the official Carnaval Jingle 2026, performed by RhythMix, was unveiled during the announcement. King Momo also revealed this year’s vibrant slogan, “Amche Goem, Amche Lok, Amcho Carnaval – Viva Goa, Viva Carnaval,” capturing the essence of community pride and collective celebration.
Each venue will host colourful float parades, lively performances, music, and dance, creating an atmosphere that truly reflects the soul of Goa. The event brings together communities, artists, performers, and visitors, offering a cultural experience that goes beyond beaches and nightlife.
Aligned with the Department of Tourism’s vision, Goa Carnaval 2026 will place strong emphasis on responsible celebrations, cleanliness, safety, and community participation, reinforcing Goa’s commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism.
Goa Tourism has invited residents, domestic travellers, and international visitors to be part of this spectacular celebration and experience the vibrant spirit of Goa through one of its most cherished festivals. Further details regarding parade routes, timings, and associated events will be announced shortly.
