The date for the start of Carnival is not fixed and can vary each year. It is determined by the religious calendar and usually begins on the Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day, which falls on January 6th. This day marks the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of the Carnival season.
Once the start date is established, the end of Carnival is calculated by counting backwards from the start. The duration of Carnival can fluctuate from country to country and even within regions of the same country. In some places, it can last for a few days, while in others, it can go on for several weeks.
In Catholic countries such as Brazil, Italy, and Spain, Carnival typically ends on the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the forty-day period of Lent leading up to Easter. This means that Carnival are constantly changing, as they are dependent on when Easter falls each year. Easter is calculated based on the lunar calendar, as it is determined by the first Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox.
To calculate the start and end date of Carnival, one must first determine the date of Easter for that particular year. Once Easter is known, the date of Ash Wednesday is established, and the end date of Carnival is then set by counting the number of days back from Ash Wednesday.
In the case of Brazil, which is renowned for its extravagant Carnival festivities, the end date is also influenced by local traditions and events. The most famous Carnival celebration in Brazil takes place in Rio de Janeiro, where the partying reaches its peak during the weekend before Ash Wednesday. The grand finale, known as the “Champions’ Parade,” takes place on the following Saturday.
In Venice, Italy, Carnival lasts for nearly two weeks and ends on Shrove Tuesday, also known as Fat Tuesday, or Mardi Gras. The final day is marked by the Flight of the Angel, a spectacular event where a person dressed as an angel descends from the bell tower of St. Mark’s Square to the ground.
In Spain, Carnival, known as “Carnaval” in Spanish, has various ending dates depending on the region. For example, in the Canary Islands, the festivities continue until the Sunday after Ash Wednesday, while in Cadiz, the celebration concludes with a grand parade called the “Burial of the Sardine” on the Saturday following Ash Wednesday.
It is worth noting that Carnival celebrations are not limited to these countries. They can be found across the globe, each with its own unique customs and traditions. From the vibrant samba parades in Brazil to the elaborate masks and costumes in Venice, Carnival brings joy and excitement to people of all ages.
In conclusion, the start and end of Carnival are determined by religious observances and traditions specific to each country and region. The calculation involves determining the date of Easter and counting backwards to Ash Wednesday, with the end date varying from a few days to several weeks depending on local customs. So, whether you’re attending a Carnival celebration or simply curious about the festivities, understanding how the start and end dates are calculated adds an extra layer of appreciation to this lively and vibrant time of year.