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February Festivals

Whether they are celebrating Ash Wednesday, New Year or an ancient tradition, our counterparts around the world get ready to celebrate this February in their own unique way.

Check out these not-to-be-missed festivals in three countries that Kaya have volunteer projects; Brazil, Bolivia and Vietnam – as if you needed any more excuse to go and volunteer.

Brazil – Rio de Janeiro Carnaval

The notorious Rio Carnaval, is undoubtedly the biggest party on the Brazilian calendar. What feels like the entire city line the streets along with revelers from around the world, to watch and follow the loud and colourful procession of drumming, singing and floats. The merriment starts on the Saturday preceeding Shrove Tuesday, and culminates in the huge Samba Parade, on the eve of Shrove Tuesday. Dancing until the early morning is guaranteed and it will be an atmosphere you won’t forget.

If you are taking part in our environmental project in Brazil, consider adding on a few days to the end of your trip to experience Brazil’s best spectacle.

Bolivia – Oruro

If you are thinking of taking part in one of our volunteer projects in Bolivia, in either Santa Cruz or La Paz, almost equidistant between the two is the city of Oruro, most famous for it’s February festival. Starting on the Saturday before Ash Wednesday and lasting ten days, the celebration is now a UNESCO protected display of heritage.

Headlining the ten-day dancing and singing fest, is “la Diablada”, or the Dance of the Devils, where a parade of dancers in demonic costumes take centre stage. Other parades include a depiction of the battle between good and evil and characters of Andean gods, that tell stories of myth and legend.

It’s a fun way to learn about Bolivian and Andean culture, whilst enjoying the company of 400,000 other party goers and even get involved in the water-bomb fight that closes the festival!

Vietnam – Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year)

A New Year celebration to rival the best in the world, arrives in Vietnam from January 19th and February 20th. New Years Eve is perhaps the biggest party in Vietnam all year, and attracts visitors from all over Vietnam and the world. It is celebrated across the country, and begins with the departure of Tao Quan gods, to deliver the news of the part year to the gods. Upon their returns (New Year’s Eve), the events of the past year are forgotten and the Vietnamese aim to make as much noise of possible as they ring in the New Year.
Drums, lights and dancing in costume are only some of the highlights. If you are volunteering in Vietnam, the festival will be almost unavoidable – you will be pulled into celebrating with locals and have the time of your life.