Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has announced that Goa Carnaval 2026 will be celebrated on a grand scale across the State, bringing together colour, music, culture and community spirit from February 13 to 17.
The official announcement was made in the presence of Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) Kuldeep Arolkar; Deputy Director of Tourism Dhiraj Wagle; Assistant Director, Department of Tourism Jayesh Kankonkar; General Manager GTDC Gavin Dias; Deputy General Manager (Hotels & Marketing) GTDC Deepak Narvekar; and King Momo Cedric Da Costa, who symbolically ushered in the festive spirit of Carnaval.
Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said Carnaval reflects Goa’s joy, inclusivity and cultural pride. He stated that taking the festivities across multiple locations will ensure greater community participation while offering visitors an authentic and memorable Goan experience. He added that Carnaval 2026 aligns with the State’s vision of responsible and regenerative tourism.
Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said Carnaval is one of Goa’s most vibrant cultural expressions and that this year’s edition has been planned to ensure wider reach, safety, cleanliness and a high-quality festive experience. He noted that coordinated celebrations across the State will present a joyful and well-managed Carnaval for residents and tourists alike.
Managing Director GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar highlighted that Goa Carnaval 2026 is being organised with a total outlay of approximately ₹1.53 crore. This includes ₹48 lakh towards prize money to encourage greater participation and creativity, and ₹1.04 crore towards infrastructure and logistics across all centres. Centre-wise allocations include ₹19 lakh for Porvorim and ₹16 lakh for Morjim, while Panaji, Margao, Vasco and Mapusa have been allocated ₹29.35 lakh towards prize money and infrastructure to ensure uniform standards of quality, safety and visitor experience.
The festivities will begin with the traditional curtain raiser on February 13 at Porvorim. The celebrations will move to Panaji on February 14 with the ceremonial flag-off of the Carnaval parade, followed by Margao on February 15 and Vasco on February 16. The celebrations will culminate on February 17 with grand events at Mapusa and Morjim.
The official Carnaval Jingle 2026, performed by RhythMix, was unveiled during the announcement. King Momo also declared this year’s slogan: “Amche Goem, Amche Lok, Amcho Carnaval – Viva Goa, Viva Carnaval,” capturing the spirit of community pride and collective celebration.
Each venue will witness colourful float parades, lively performances, music and dance, showcasing Goa’s rich cultural heritage beyond its beaches. The Department of Tourism stated that emphasis will be placed on responsible celebration, cleanliness, safety and community participation, reinforcing the State’s commitment to sustainable and regenerative tourism.
Goa Tourism has invited residents, domestic travellers and international visitors to be part of one of the State’s most cherished festivals. Further details regarding parade routes, timings and associated events will be announced shortly.
