Carnival & Mardi Gras

Carnival brings together music, dance, costumes and community, with many celebrations historically linked to the period before the Christian season of Lent. Traditions have developed distinct identities around the world, shaped by local histories and African, Indigenous and European cultural influences. Mardi Gras means “Fat Tuesday” in French and names the day before Ash Wednesday.

When it happens: many pre-Lent Carnivals culminate in February or March, with dates changing each year according to Easter. Not every Carnival follows this calendar: London’s Notting Hill Carnival takes place over the August bank holiday weekend, and some Caribbean Carnivals are held at other times of year.

Brazilian Carnival includes samba parades and many regional music and street traditions. Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is known for mas, calypso and soca. Venice is associated with elaborate masks and costumes, while New Orleans Mardi Gras features parades organised by krewes. These celebrations share a festive spirit but are not interchangeable, and customs vary between communities.

Coming soon: colourful decorative pieces and thoughtful gifts for festive gatherings and community celebrations, inspired by the joy of Carnival while respecting its varied cultural traditions.