Brazilian Carnaval

February, March: Brazilian Carnaval

Brazilian Carnaval

The Carnival of Brazil, known locally as Carnaval, is a four day festival that proceeds Ash Wednesday. Celebrations vary from region of region. In the southeastern cities of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Vitória, there are huge organized parades. The northeastern cities of Recife, Olinda, Salvador, and Porto Seguro have organized parades as well, but the public interacts with paraders.

Carnaval is huge, drawing millions of people each year. Most places, except for retail establishments, carnival-related businesses, and industrial production close for the festivities.

Celebrations last all day and all night.

Rio de Janeiro’s Carnaval Highlights

carnaval
Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro
  • Parades, The Samba Parade is a special parade in which the different samba schools compete. Months of preparation go into the performance, and thousands of supporters assemble to create the displays. Each school chooses a different theme each year. It can be anything. Then they create special music, costumes, floats, and more. The performance is choreographed and organized down to the smallest detail.
  • Balls, costumes are not required at all balls, but recommend. The Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace is the most famous ball. An extravagant costume or black tie/evening dress is required.
  • Street parties
  • Street band processions

Upcoming Dates for the Start of Carnaval

  • 2024: February 9
  • 2025: February 28

You Might Also Like

⇴ woman purchased from vecteezy; carnival parade from Fernando Frazão/Agência Brasil, wikipedia, (CC BY 3.0 BR)

Share It:
Skip to content