One of the highlights of the Cape Verde calendar is carnival. This starts immediately before Lent, usually in February. Although carnival is celebrated on all the Cape Verde islands, the one on the island of São Vicente is the largest and most elaborate. The events take place in the main town of Mindelo. In 2027 it will take place between 7 and 14 February. This is a great time to experience and immerse yourself in the culture of Cape Verde and enjoy the fun. Events during the Mindelo carnival include music, dance and several colourful parades.
The carnival celebrations will open on 7 February with the start of daily parades. However, the main event is on 9 February (Shrove Tuesday, Mardi Gras or FastNacht, depending on your country/language). This is the last day before the Christian period of Lent, which is traditionally a period of fasting. The streets of Mindelo will be alive with colourful costumes, music, dancing and celebration. The following day is the carnival awards ceremony. Whilst that may appear to be the end of carnival, on 14 February there will be the Mandingas parade. This is a rather different event. The participants in this parade cover themselves in black oil or tar. They carry spears, wear skirts and dance to the rhythm of the drums. It is a tribute to their African ancestors and an attempt to rediscover their lost identity.
So if you have never been in Cape Verde for Carnival, maybe São Vicente in February 2027 is something to consider. Flights and accommodation get booked up early, so don’t leave it too long. There are also other festivals in Cape Verde. The Cape Verdean people love to party.
[08 July 2026]
