The beat of the drums, the vibrant costumes, the contagious energy – carnivals are celebrations of life, culture, and community. America hosts a diverse array of these joyous events throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned carnival-goer or a curious first timer, the Upcoming America Carnivals in 2024 is waiting to sweep you off your feet.
The list features notable occurrences across America and according to the event date. These events, including pancake breakfasts, arctic plunges, snow sculptures, and ice slides, will undoubtedly warm and amuse you throughout the winter.
Here Are Some Places to Fuel Your Excitement for Upcoming America Carnivals in 2024.
Hollywood Carnival (June 21-23)
Hollywood is a neighborhood situated in the central area of Los Angeles. It lies to the west and northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Hollywood Boulevard transforms into a street extravaganza carnival with parade-goers, masquerades, and musicians all dressed in incredible costumes and dancing the weekend away to music from around the world, like soca, reggae, samba, and more.
Saint Paul Winter Carnival (January 25 – February 3)
This winter celebration is in its 138th year and is the biggest and oldest in the U.S. The St. Paul Winter Carnival is filled with cold weather fun, including several signature events in a winter wonderland. The carnival starts with four days of ice carving, from the multi-block team competition to the single-block competition on Sunday.
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival (February 2 – February 11)
Saranac Lake is the longest-running event in the eastern U.S., featuring sports, performances, two parades, and three sets of spectacular fireworks. It features annual favorites such as constructing a fantastic ice palace, ladies frying pan toss, live music, and entertainment. The whole community gets involved with various businesses sponsoring events.
Steamboat Winter Carnival (February 8 – February 11)
The 2024 event will be the 110th Winter Carnival, held by the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, one of the country’s oldest winter festivals. Over several days, you will find ski jumping and ski jöring events down snow-packed Lincoln Avenue, a spectacular night show featuring the legendary Lighted Man, and a fireworks display. One of the most unique elements is a parade featuring Steamboat’s skiing high school band.
Fur Rendezvous Carnival (February 22 – March 3)
Fur Rendezvous (or Fur Rondy) is 12-day festival drawing visitors to Anchorage. Highlights include the Official Rondy Fur Auction, Blanket Toss, AT&T Fireworks Extravaganza, World Championship Sled Dog Race, Rondy Carnival, Frostbite Footrace, Grand Parade, Miners and Trappers Party, Rondy Melodrama, C.J. Native Arts Market, Running of the Reindeer, and many more.
Mammoth Mountain Pond Skim (April 14)
Check out Mammoth Mountain’s Pond Skim to close out the winter festival season. An annual event where costumed skiers and snowboarders skim across an ice-cold, 100+ foot pond at Canyon Lodge. It’s a fun, wacky event followed by an afterparty at the Beach Bar. Mammoth Mountain is an outdoor adventure hub in the Sierra Mountains of California. Aside from great skiing and other outdoor adventures, you will find excellent restaurants and shopping in the area to explore.
St. Thomas Carnival: A Caribbean Gem in the U.S. Virgin Islands (April 28 – May 5)
Get ready for a vibrant explosion of Caribbean culture at the St. Thomas Carnival! Held annually since 1952, this week-long celebration is the U.S. Virgin Islands’ biggest bash, drawing in revellers from around the globe. Witness the dazzling parades adorned with feathers and sequins, lose yourself in the infectious rhythms of calypso and soca music and savor the island’s delectable cuisine. Don’t miss the electrifying J’ouvert morning jump-up, where revellers paint themselves in colorful mud and dance to the pulsating beat of steel drums.
New Orleans Mardi Gras: The Grand Dame of American Carnivals (February 13 – 21)
New Orleans’ Mardi Gras is arguably the most iconic United States carnival steeped in centuries-old traditions and flamboyant revelry. From the elaborate and historic parades with their signature throws of beads and doubloons to the raucous street parties overflowing with music and laughter, Mardi Gras is a sensory overload in the best possible way.
Conclusion
Here’s just a sample of the many thrilling carnivals that America will have in 2024. So, mark your calendars, pick your destination, and get ready to experience these unforgettable celebrations’ joy, music, and vibrant energy! Remember, each carnival has unique traditions and customs, so research and come prepared to participate respectfully. And most importantly, let loose, have fun, and embrace the spirit of celebration!
If you’d like to learn more about specific events or get recommendations for other upcoming carnivals based on your interests, just let us know by commenting.