Carnival season brings parties, parades and all-out revelry in many countries around the world and this year, Chicago hosts Global Connections: International Carnivale at Navy Pier on February 7, 2026, from 12-5 PM.
Photo courtesy of Navy Pier
Dance on down to Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom and participate in free art-making, dancing, and live music while sampling traditional carnival dishes. Discover the traditions of celebrations associated with the pre-Lenten ritual from around the world at this high-spirited event.
Shake your hips to a thrilling line-up of performers from Brazil, Colombia, Puerto Rico and Jamaica, decked out in elaborate bejeweled and feathered costumes. Performers include Chicago Samba, Four Star Brass Band, Folklore Society and Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center.
Photo courtesy of Navy Pier
Taste Carnivale/Mardi Gras foods and learn about the specific rhythms and dances for the season. For a special dining experience, Lirica Restaurant, located on the ground floor of the Sable Hotel at Navy Pier, will offer a chef-curated menu of dishes inspired by Brazil’s Carnivale. The price-fixe Carnivale menu is available from February 13-21 during dinner hours and includes live music on Fridays from 6-8 pm.
Global Connections International Carnivale
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave.
February 7, 2026, 12- 5 pm
Free
Discover more Fun
Leave a Reply