Carnival is a world-wide festive season that usually takes place in February, just before Lent. The celebration is to participate in indulgence and the splendor of life before the people practice personal sacrifice for God during Lent. Festivities generally involve a large parade where the public dresses up in fancy costumes with street bands.
Carnival is traditionally celebrated by nations actively practicing Catholicism. Spain, due to its extremely large Roman Catholic population (over 94%) and its colonized nations, are some of the main participants. Samba schools of dance and bands practice year-round in preparation for this festival. Many compete for the honor of performing in the parades.