If you had to define Carnival, you’d probably think of Rio de Janeiro, the masks of Venice, or perhaps a damp August bank holiday celebrated West Indian style in Notting Hill. Although carnival revellers make merry from Indonesia to Croatia and Haiti, it’s the Catholics who take the credit for this extravaganza.

They instigated this annual ritual – defined in Brazil by an excess of glitter, skimpy outfits and feather headdresses – but then again, they’re the ones who pay most attention to Lent. Therefore, they need to consume all the tasty treats possible before 40 days’ fast kicks off – and this is represented through dancing, music and skimpy outfits ahead of Easter.

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