Argentina Carnival
Monday, February 16, 2026
Argentina Carnival is celebrated in February with colorful parades, water fights, and street festivals across the country. The most famous celebrations take place in the northern provinces of Corrientes, Jujuy, and Salta, where Carnival traditions blend indigenous, African, and European influences. The Gualeguaychú Carnival in Entre Ríos province features elaborate costumes, samba music, and parade floats.
History
Carnival was brought to Argentina by Spanish colonizers and evolved differently across the country's regions. In the northwest, indigenous and mestizo traditions created unique celebrations like the Carnival of Humahuaca. In Buenos Aires, Carnival declined during the military dictatorship (1976-1983) but has seen a revival since the return of democracy.
How It's Celebrated
Celebrations include comparsas (dance groups) parading in colorful costumes, water and foam fights (particularly in the northwest), murga (theatrical street performances), and traditional music. In Corrientes, the Carnival features chamamé music. The Carnival of Gualeguaychú is the country's largest, drawing thousands of spectators.