Last year, only two parades were held in the light of the Covid-19 Pandemic.
Gomantak Times/Venita Gomes
Goa tourism department will host four carnival float parades from February 26.
The parades will be flagged off at 3.30 PM following Covid protocols and the Model code of conduct for general assembly elections. There will be no commercial floats or floats on a political theme.
The tourism department has decided to host the parade in four cities this year. The parades will be held on February 26 in Panaji, February 27 in Margao, February 28 in Vasco, and March 1 in Mapusa.
The tourism department usually hosts parades in six cities across the state. Last year, only two parades were held in the light of the Covid-19 Pandemic.
The Goa Carnival commemorates the 450-year-old presence of the Portuguese in Goa. It is a festival organised before Lent, which is meant for fasting and penance among the Catholics, 40 days ahead of Easter celebrations. Goa Carnival is celebrated in Panaji, Vasco, Mapusa and Margao.
With each city hosting a parade on every separate night, Goan streets light up with marching bands, group dances and people dressed in colourful costumes.