Where to go on holiday in February

Who says you have to come down from your Christmas and New Year high once peak winter passes? February transforms into a global stage for vibrant carnivals. From the iconic streets of Rio de Janeiro, where samba rhythms fill the air and dazzling parades captivate millions, to the historic canals of Venice, where elaborate masks and elegant costumes evoke a sense of timeless mystery, the month offers a diverse array of celebrations. Not to be overlooked is Rijeka, Croatia, which hosts one of Europe's most unique carnivals, blending traditional folklore with modern revelry. Or for a festival further afield, Tapati Rapa Nui is an annual cultural festival held on Easter Island (Rapa Nui) in February, celebrating the island's unique Polynesian heritage. The festival features traditional sports, music, dance, and artistic competitions, culminating in the election of a "queen" who represents the island's beauty and spirit.For your next holiday, consider joining one of these spectacular events and experiencing the joy, culture, and unforgettable energy of these world-renowned carnivals. 

Here are a selection of some of the best February festivals for you to choose from.

Rio Carnival

Possibly the world’s most famous festival, the Carnival lures in millions of people from across the globe every day. The streets of Rio de Janeiro are flooded for five sleepless days, colourful parades, costumes and over-the-top parties making it the ‘greatest show on Earth’.

The flamboyant festival arose out of tradition, where everyone removed the temptation to wine and dine during Lent. As you can imagine, this means a hedonistic party where everything goes – including feathered headpieces and exuberant Brazilian dances.

The 2026 Rio Carnival Festival will be held from 13th to 17th February and will culminate when the top Samba schools in Rio compete with each other to put on the best parade extravaganza possible.

For the experience of a lifetime, visit this stunning spectacle with our 4 Night 'Rio Carnival' itinerary.

Venice Carnival

Similar to the Rio Carnival of Brazil, Italy’s version – the Carnival of Venice – also takes place before Lent. Where the Brazilians are about indulging before a long fast, this Carnival is about throwing away class differences and knowing only revelry. This annual event has been held since the 18th century and incorporates grand balls, entertainment and art installations and is widely considered as one of the best festivals in the world.

Venice Carnival takes place from 31st January to 17th February 2026. So, dust off your Venetian mask and head to the Floating City and experience the magic this February.

Rijeka Carnival

Rijeka is famous for its carnival (taking place in February each year) which has grown into the world’s third largest carnival after Rio de Janeiro and Venice. Although the carnival and associated masks are recognised as having their history date back as far as the fifteenth century, today's modern day carnival was actually established in 1982. It is now proudly among the Top 500 European Events, and the Sunday Times declared it one of the most exotic world events, included in the book “501 must be there events”. 

February is a great time to visit and the town comes alive during the carnival, with over 100 groups taking part and over 10,000 participants in the parade! Spectators adorn the streets and watch on television nationwide, to witness the floats, costumes and to experience the vibrant atmosphere.

The carnival officially starts 17th January - ending with the carnival parade on 15th February 2026.

Tapati Rapa Nui - Easter Island

Easter Island is known for the monolithic heads and potential for deep magic, but for two weeks in early February, our attention is drawn to a unique cultural festival. What Tapati Rapa Nui offers isn’t unlimited drinks or heart-thumping music – but authentic, islander culture.

Visitors are encouraged to participate, even in events hosted at the crater of an extinct volcano! Spearfishing, sliding down steep slopes on banana trunks, dance competitions and more will fill your days with laughter. The highlight? When two families battle it out on the dance floor to crown the Queen of Tapati.

Tapati 2026 will likely be celebrated between January 30 and February 15, 2026, although the official confirmation will be announced a couple months prior.