The best carnival outside Rio may just be in Limassol Cyprus.

Every February in Limassol, Cyprus, one will encounter a "Stinky Thursday" experience where a not-so-appeaaling smell fills the air. This aroma of lamb and pork grilled with rosemary is what they call it "Tsiknopempti" in Greece. And whenever this happens in Limassol, Cyprus, this signals that the best carnival outside Rio is about to happen: the Limassol Carnival.

The Limassol Carnival in Cyprus may be the liveliest carnival outside Rio because of the vivacious colors one will witness during the event.

Cyprus is filled with numerous festivals which celebrate an abundant array of culture, but this big festival which runs from February 20 to March 2 stands out.

Limassol-born photographer Marios Vrioni says of the carnival, "Limassol Carnival makes us forget our problems for a while, have fun and laugh with our hearts." Even for him who is now living in Lefkosia, he returns to his native soil to witness the Limassol Carnival.

The Greeks who participate in the carnival indulgence themselves before fasting for the Lenten period.

The Limassol Carnival opens when the city's brass band and drummers, together with mandolin-toting kantadoroi "serenaders" to accompany the Carnival King or Queen on the streets.

As more musicians and dancers pack the Limassol streets, one will feel the gayest of vibes with the locals.

Limassol resident Penelope Hearns who runs the Cyprus Expat website says, "I've been going to the Limassol Carnival for the past three years. It's smaller [than a Carnival like Rio], but for me that's part of the charm -- it's accessible, friendly, and everyone can join in. And you don't have to book a room or tickets years in advance -- most of the events that the municipality puts on are free."

But aside from the happy atmosphere of the parade, it's not without meaning as the Limassol Municipality's carnival organizer Kleon Alexandrou says it's "possibly the only Carnival parade in the world that focuses on satirizing the current economic, social and political issues of the country."

So why is the best carnival outside Rio the Limassol Carnival in Cyprus? Well, aside from the abundant colors, the costumed, happy people, animated floats, energetic music and eccentric costumes, it's completely free and everybody is welcome to join in the celebration.