Big Nights of Goa Carnival: Countdown, Dates To Track & Where Festivities Peak
If your Goa trip is this month, this is the window to lock plans. The official 2026 Carnival run is five days, from 13 to 17 February, and it moves across cities instead of staying in one place, a detail currently highlighted in India Current News. So timing matters: pick one parade night, or follow the route for the full street-party arc.
Goa Tourism has already pushed the city schedule on its official social channels, which makes planning much easier right now.
The 2026 Route, Night By Night
The lineup starts with the Curtain Raiser in Porvorim (13 Feb). Then it rolls to Panjim (14 Feb), Margao (15 Feb), and Vasco (16 Feb). The finale is on 17 Feb with two simultaneous parades in Mapusa and Morjim.
If you are choosing only two big nights, Panjim and Margao are practical picks because both have clearly published, central parade routes and strong crowd pull. Track updates on the official account here: Goa Tourism on X.
Why This Year Feels Bigger
Goa entered 2026 with strong tourism momentum and high festive occupancy signals, so Carnival nights may feel tighter and busier than a normal weekend circuit. Also, the Department of Tourism has already published the Goa Carnival Entry Form 2026, a good sign that float participation and city prep started early. You can also follow the official schedule post here: Goa Tourism on Instagram.
FAQs
What are Goa Carnival 2026 dates?
Goa Carnival 2026 runs from February 13 to February 17 across multiple parade cities statewide.
Which cities host the biggest parade nights?
Major parade nights happen in Panjim, Margao, Vasco, Mapusa, Morjim, plus Porvorim curtain raiser event.
Is Carnival entry free for the public?
Official Goa Tourism posts describe open streets, so core parades stay publicly accessible without tickets.
Where can I verify official schedule updates quickly?
Goa Tourism official X account and website updates confirm routes, timings, city changes, and advisories.
Are there official participation forms for floats?
Yes, Goa Tourism lists Goa Carnival Entry Form 2026 and notices on the forms page.
