Carnival
(Book)

Includes index.

Of all the holidays celebrated across the modern world, Carnival might be the most boisterous, and possibly the most fun. In the Christian religion, from Eastern Europe to the Americas, Carnival offers revelers an opportunity to celebrate the pleasures of life. Carnival is known for its exuberance, color, creativity, and culture. In many countries people celebrate the holiday with lavish parades, jubilant dancing, and nonstop music. Parade participants create elaborate floats and march through the streets in glittering, colorful costumes. Musical groups face off in marathon competitions, and young men and women dress their best in the hope of being named the Carnival king and queen. This book examines the history and pre-Christian roots of the holiday, and details different customs unique to particular areas, including Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America