History, Costumes, Blocos & Sambódromo

The moment the samba beat hits, resistance is futile. The electrifying energy of the crowd, the pulsating rhythm of the bateria, and the dazzling movements of Rio’s Carnival dancers combine to create an experience like no other. Close your eyes and imagine yourself surrounded by a sea of colors, with the extravagant costumes of Rio Carnival filling the streets. Can you feel the rhythm in your veins?

And the best part? Carnival is happening this week! Four days (or more) of pure celebration, where friends and families take to the streets in vibrant costumes to enjoy the world’s biggest party. Ready to dive into the magic of Rio Carnival? Let’s explore Rio de Janeiro’s carnival history, its costumes, common activities, the role of carnival songs and dances, typical Rio Carnival costumes, and what the Sambadrome is!

Our RioLIVE! Carnival Lens

At Rio & Learn, Carnival isn’t just something we explain; it’s something we go live. With our RioLIVE! activities, we regularly take students to Sambadrome rehearsals and samba school visits, so you can feel the music, see the artistry up close, and finally understand what people mean when they say: Rio vibrates during Carnaval.

And if you want the “I can’t believe I’m here” version of Carnival, we’ve even brought students to watch the parade in Sapucaí as part of our experiences.

What is Rio Carnival?

Rio Carnival is Brazil’s heart and soul, the world’s biggest and most spectacular party. A whirlwind of samba, joy, and color, it brings together extravagant parades, legendary blocos (street parties), and an infectious energy that transforms the city into a non-stop festival.

The Highlights:

✅ The Sambódromo Parades: Where Rio’s samba schools compete with jaw-dropping floats, dazzling costumes, and mesmerizing choreography. Each school tells a unique story through music, dance, and unparalleled creativity.
✅ Street Parties (Blocos): Free and open to everyone—no tickets, no dress code, just pure fun! Dance through the streets with crowds of locals and visitors alike.
✅ Non-Stop Celebration: Whether you’re at a bloco or watching the grand parade, Carnival in Rio is an experience you’ll never forget!

Rio Carnival Dates

What do you know about Rio de Janeiro’s carnival? Many say that it’s the best time of year to be in Brazil. It’s a moment of freedom and celebration where everyone can have fun, be together on the streets and listen to the best Carnival songs! You can enjoy it in many ways, we’ll show you some throughout this Dica! But first, let’s take a look at the upcoming Carnivals in Rio de Janeiro:

2026	From February 13th until February 18th
2027	From February 5th until February 10th
2028	From February 25th until March 1st
2029	From February 9th until February 14th
2030	From March 1st until March 6th

Is Rio Carnival the Same as Mardi Gras?

If you grew up hearing “Mardi Gras,” you’re not wrong to connect it with Carnival. They’re part of the same pre-Lent season. The difference is the labeling and the vibe.

In places like New Orleans, people often use “Mardi Gras” to talk about the big peak moment (Fat Tuesday) and the culture around it. In Brazil, we usually just say “Carnaval” for the whole celebration, and Rio’s version becomes its own universe: samba schools, blocos, and a city that basically runs on rhythm for weeks.

And for French speakers: yes, you’ll hear “Mardi Gras” used in French contexts too, but in Brazil, if you say “Carnaval,” everyone instantly knows what you mean (and they’ll probably invite you to a bloco).

Micro Portuguese moment (mini-dialogue style)

You: “É tipo Mardi Gras?” (Is it like Mardi Gras?)
Carioca friend: “É Carnaval… só que do jeito do Rio.” (It’s Carnival… just the Rio way.)
You (smiling): “Entendi. Então… partiu bloco?” (Got it. So… shall we hit a street party?)

Rio Carnival History

The Rio Carnival has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries. It was brought to Brazil by Portuguese colonizers and initially manifested as the ‘Entrudo’ festival. This early version of the carnival featured public games and lighthearted mockery in the streets.

Over time, the festival evolved and incorporated masks and costumes, giving birth to the vibrant and colorful celebration we know today. The first Rio masquerade took place in 1840, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the Carnival. In the early 20th century, the afro-Brazilians introduced the Samba and Batucada rhythms, creating a new musical genre that became an integral part of the Carnival’s identity, the samba enredo and the dance style for Carnival in Rio.

However, the Rio Carnival has not been without its challenges. It was postponed in 1892 (alleged infection control precautions) and in 1912 (death of Barão do Rio Branco, maybe our most famous Irish Brazilian!), In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of the Carnival, bringing disappointment to both locals and tourists alike. It was the only year in history when Rio’s Carnival was cancelled, can you believe it?

In 2022, there was almost a second cancellation, also due to COVID-19 but fortunately it was postponed to the end of April, after the holiday of Tiradentes. It was a Carnival full of meaning for Cariocas and tourists as it symbolized life going back to normal.

Festival of Rio de Janeiro: Parade of Samba Schools

Carnival kicks off on Friday with the first parades of the samba schools. The event begins with the Serie Ouro (formerly Grupo de Acesso), a league of schools competing for a coveted spot in the prestigious Grupo Especial. Each year, the top-ranked school from the Grupo de Acesso earns promotion, while the lowest-ranked from the Grupo Especial moves down—just like in football (or soccer, if you prefer)!

On Sunday, the much-anticipated Grupo Especial parade begins. Twelve elite samba schools take over Marquês de Sapucaí, bringing one of Brazil’s most spectacular performances to life. Rio & Learn will be there too, proving that we know how to sambar!

All parades take place at the Sambadrome, a stadium built exclusively for Carnival. Yes, you read that right—Rio has an entire stadium just for Carnival, and that’s where most Cariocas go to celebrate. Check out the official parade schedule so you don’t miss a second of this unforgettable event:

Time	Sunday, Feb 15th, 2026	Monday, Feb 16th, 2026	Tuesday, Feb 17th, 2026
22:00	Acadêmicos de Niterói	Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel	Paraíso do Tuiuti
23:30	Imperatriz Leopoldinense	Beija-Flor	Unidos de Vila Isabel
01:00	Portela	Unidos do Viradouro	Grande Rio
02:30	Mangueira	Unidos da Tijuca	Acadêmicos do Salgueiro

Ever dreamed of being part of one of the world’s biggest parties, witnessing the legendary parade in person? No? Well, we’re here to make it happen!

Carnival Floats in Rio: The “Alegorias” That Steal the Show

If you’ve never seen a Rio Carnival float in real life, here’s what surprises people most: these aren’t just parade decorations, they’re moving stages, built to help each samba school tell its story (the enredo) in a way you can feel from the stands.

In Rio, floats are called carros alegóricos (or just alegorias), and they’re one of the most watched parts of the parade, for the crowd and for the judges. There’s even a specific judging category for “Alegorias e Adereços” (floats and visual elements), which shows how central they are to the competition.

What to look for (even if you know nothing about samba schools):
Watch how the float connects to the theme, how the costumes match the colors and symbols, and how the “wow” moments land when the bateria hits a big break. That’s when the avenue feels like a movie — except you’re inside it.

Quick Portuguese practice

Next time you see a monster float rolling toward you, try saying this out loud:

“Que carro alegórico lindo!” = What a beautiful float!
“Qual é o enredo da escola?” = What’s the school’s theme/story?
“Arrepiei!” = I got chills!

Dancing with the Best Samba Dancers at Rio’s Carnival: A Dream You Can Live!

But if you want to participate in it by parading with one of the schools above, we have just the right RioLIVE! for you! Come parade with us while you learn Portuguese!

Imagine this: sequins and feathers shimmering under the spotlights, the hypnotic rhythm of samba pulsing through your body, and the most incredible samba dancers in the world moving with the grace and energy of true Carnival legends. This is Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival—the pinnacle of samba, where anyone can feel like a star on the grandest stage of all: the Sambódromo.

And yes, the dancers you see at Rio’s Carnival aren’t just amazing—they’re the best in the world. Their movements are poetry in motion, perfected through years of dedication, countless rehearsals, and an unshakable love for samba. Watching them perform feels like magic. Dancing alongside them? That’s a once-in-a-lifetime thrill!

And here’s the best part: you don’t have to be a samba pro to join the parade. Even if your samba skills lean more toward “enthusiastic wiggling” than “elegant footwork,” samba schools welcome everyone with open arms and wide smiles. At Carnival, it’s all about energy, joy, and the thrill of being part of something bigger than yourself.

Picture yourself in a dazzling costume, surrounded by elite dancers whose talent will leave you speechless. You’ll step onto the parade avenue with your samba school, your heart pounding with excitement. The crowd will cheer, the drums will thunder, and in that moment, you’ll feel the electrifying magic of Rio’s Carnival.

Trust us—nobody cares if your samba isn’t perfect. It’s your energy, your smile, and your love for the experience that truly matter! Join us to Parade in Rio de Janeiro Carnival!

Blocos de Carnaval of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Another way to celebrate Rio Carnival is to participate in the street blocos. These are the heart and soul of Carnival, where massive crowds gather, dressed in colorful costumes, singing along to Carnival anthems, playing live music, dancing, and celebrating in true Brazilian style. Unlike the Sambadrome, blocos are spontaneous, open to everyone, and take over the streets of Rio de Janeiro. You can hop between different blocos in a single day—all you need is energy!

If you’re in the Marvelous City, be sure to check out the official bloco schedule so you don’t miss out on the fun!

If you want to enjoy Rio de Janeiro Carnival with Rio & Learn then keep an eye on our RioLIVE! Activities We always visit the Samba Schools and go to the Sambódromo rehearsals. Come join us!

Don’t miss the street parties! There are lots of them around the city during Rio de Janeiro Carnival. But you must pay attention to your safety, ok? We can help you with some safety tips.

Buy Carnival Costumes for Rio de Janeiro Carnival

Costumes are a fundamental part of Rio Carnival, bringing color, glamour, and creativity to the streets. Every costume is carefully designed, featuring dazzling feathers, sequins, and accessories that transform the city into a mesmerizing spectacle.

If you’re looking for the perfect Carnival outfit, head to Uruguaiana, in downtown Rio. This bustling shopping district is packed with stores offering a wide variety of costumes, masks, and accessories—everything you need to join the fun and embrace the Carnival spirit!

What to Wear to Carnival in Brazil?

When it comes to Carnival in Brazil, the rule is simple: wear your joy! This is the time to let loose, get creative, Carnival fashion rule #1: Wear your joy! This is the time to let loose, get creative, and embrace the carefree energy of the world’s biggest party.

At the Sambódromo:

• If you’re parading with a samba school, you’ll receive an official costume—think extravagant sequins, feathers, and jaw-dropping designs.
• If you’re watching, go for comfortable yet festive attire. Light, breathable fabrics are a must because Rio’s heat doesn’t stop—even at night!
• Accessorize! Flower crowns, glitter, masks, or funky hats add a fun touch to your look.

For Blocos (Street Parties):

• Anything goes! Get creative—superheroes, funky animals, 70s disco, or even a pineapple costume (yes, you’ll fit right in).
• Prioritize comfort: Sneakers or sandals that can handle hours of dancing are essential.
• Stay hydrated—bring a bottle of water, wear sunscreen, and keep a hat handy. (Pro tip: Alcohol doesn’t count as hydration—but for some reason, nobody listens when we say that!)

For the Beach or Chill Days:

• A colorful swimsuit, a sarong, and flip-flops will keep you cool while you relax and recharge before the next party.

And most importantly, wear a smile and your best party attitude! Carnival is about self-expression, so go all out—add glitter, paint your face, and let the samba rhythm inspire your look! 🎭✨

Where to Stay in Rio for Carnival?

When choosing where to stay during Carnival in Rio, it’s all about being close to the samba action while having a Choosing where to stay during Carnival in Rio is all about being close to the action while having a comfortable place to recharge between parties. Here are the best neighborhoods—plus an exclusive Rio & Learn option!

🏖️ Copacabana & Ipanema

Why stay here?

• You’ll be in the heart of the Carnival vibe—world-famous beaches, endless blocos, and a lively atmosphere.
• Central location with easy access to all the main events.
• Bonus: Copacabana is home to Rio & Learn!

🎭 Santa Teresa

Why stay here?

• A bohemian escape with a more relaxed, artsy vibe.
• Boutique hotels, colonial architecture, and incredible views.
• Perfect for those who want a balance between Carnival and tranquility.

🎉 Glória & Catete

Why stay here?

• Hidden gems with easy access to the Sambadrome and downtown Rio.
• Authentic local culture and more affordable options.

🏡 Stay with Rio & Learn!

Want to fully immerse yourself in Brazilian culture during Carnival? Stay with a local family through our Rio & Learn Homestay Program!

• Experience LiveLearning—practicing Portuguese while living the Carnival dream.
• Get insider tips from your hosts and maybe even learn a few samba moves before hitting the streets!

🔥 Pro tip: Book your accommodation as early as possible—Carnival rooms fill up faster than a bloco takes over the streets!

Where to Buy Rio Carnival Tickets?

If you want front-row seats to the greatest show on Earth, securing your Sambadrome tickets in advance is crucial! Here’s where to get them:

🎟️ Official Samba School League (LIESA) Website

💡 Rio & Learn Assistance

• Joining Rio & Learn’s programs? We can help!
• We organize Carnival Portuguese activities so you can practice Portuguese while experiencing the festivities!

✅ Authorized Ticket Agencies

• Several agencies sell Carnival tickets with extra services (like guides and transportation).
• Always verify that the agency is officially authorized to avoid scams!

🎲 Last-Minute at the Sambadrome

• Feeling spontaneous? You can try buying tickets on-site, but it’s a gamble—the best seats might already be gone, and prices can vary.

Not sure which ticket to choose? Get to know the Sambadrome better before making your decision, with our informative Dica and helpful map!

Is Rio Carnival Safe?

Yes, Rio Carnival can be safe if you take a few precautions to enjoy the festivities worry-free. Here’s how to stay safe while soaking up the magic:

1. Stick to Crowds: Carnival is all about energy and togetherness, so stay where the action is – well-lit areas with lots of people.
2. Watch Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure in a money belt or small, crossbody bag. Avoid carrying flashy jewelry or large amounts of cash.
3. Be Mindful at Blocos: Street parties are fun but can get crowded. Stick with your group, know your meeting points, and don’t wander off alone.
4. Use Trusted Transportation: Use ride-share apps like Uber or 99.
5. Stay Hydrated and Rested: Between the heat, dancing, and caipirinhas, it’s easy to forget water and breaks. Keep hydrated and pace yourself!
6. Know Emergency Numbers: Save Rio’s emergency numbers (190 for police, 192 for medical services, 911 for police if you want English attention) and the address of your accommodation in case you need help.

Anyway, Rio may not be as safe as your hometown, so stay aware. Carnival is a lively, crowded event, with a little caution and common sense you will party safely. See more Rio de Janeiro safety tips.

Rio Carnival FAQs

When is Carnival in Rio?

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is the greatest party on Earth, and it happens every year right before Lent begins. The main celebrations usually kick off on the Friday before Ash Wednesday and continue until Tuesday night (or until your energy runs out – whichever comes first!).

In 2026, mark your calendars: Carnival officially runs from February 13th to February 17th. However, many people celebrate all week long, with the Rio Carnival Champions Parade on Saturday, February 21st at 7:00 PM.

But here’s a secret: the Carnival vibe starts weeks before and lingers long after. Samba schools rehearse, blocos (street parties) warm up the city, and the rhythm of samba takes over Rio’s soul. So, if you’re planning your trip, arriving early or staying a little longer means even more Carnival magic! 🎉💃

How Much Does It Cost to Go to Rio Carnival?

The cost of experiencing Rio Carnival depends on your vibe! Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Sambódromo Tickets: Prices range from R$200 to R$5,000+ depending on your seat and days.
• Accommodation: Hotels and homestays during Carnival can cost between R$400 to R$1,500 per night, depending on location, dates and comfort.
• Blocos (Street Parties): Free! Just bring your costume and party spirit.
• Food and Drinks: Around R$50 to R$150 per day, depending on where and what you eat.
• Transportation: A few reais for buses or R$20 to R$50 for taxis and ride-shares.
• On average, budget around R$3,000 to R$7,000+ for a full Carnival experience, depending on your style. But trust us – it’s worth every cent for the magic, samba, and unforgettable memories! 🎉💃✨

When Does Carnival Start in Rio?

Carnival begins on the Friday before Ash Wednesday and runs through Tuesday night, making it a vibrant five-day celebration. In 2026, Carnival will start on February 13th. Anyway, officially, Rio Carnival starts Saturday morning with the bloco O Cordão da Bola Preta, so the official start would be in 2026 on February 14th.

Do You Need Tickets for Rio Carnival?

It depends on what part of Carnival you’re planning to experience:

• Sambódromo Parades: Yes, you’ll need tickets to watch the stunning samba school parades. Prices vary depending on your seat, but trust us – it’s worth every cent to witness this jaw-dropping spectacle! The sad news is that all tickets for the 2026 Rio Carnival may already be sold out. 😥 
• Blocos (Street Parties): Nope! Street parties are free and open to everyone. Just show up, join the crowd, and let the samba take over!

How Is Rio Carnival Celebrated?

Rio Carnival is celebrated with pure joy, vibrant energy, and nonstop samba! The city transforms into a massive party where every corner has something magical to offer:

• Sambódromo Parades: This is Carnival’s grand showcase! It’s an unforgettable spectacle of color, music, and passion!
• Blocos (Street Parties): These free-spirited street parties are where locals and visitors dance together in the open air. Each bloco has its own theme, music, and vibe.
• Music and Dance Everywhere: From live samba bands to impromptu dance-offs, the rhythm of Carnival takes over bars, beaches, private parties, and neighborhoods across the city.
• Costumes and Creativity: Everyone dresses up – from sequins and feathers to quirky, creative outfits. It’s your chance to be whoever you want for the day (or week)!
• Joy and Togetherness: Carnival isn’t just about the parades or parties. It’s about connecting, laughing, celebrating life… and loving and kissing people from all walks of life!

How Long Is the Rio Carnival Parade?

In 2026, the Rio Carnival’s Special Group parades will span three nights (Sunday, February 15th; Monday, February 16th; and Tuesday, February 17th) with four samba schools performing each night. Each samba school is allocated approximately 60 to 75 minutes to showcase their performance, resulting in nightly parades lasting around 6 hours, typically starting at 7:00 PM and concluding in the early morning hours.

How Many People Attend Carnival in Rio?

In 2024, Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival attracted a record-breaking 8 million attendees. And in 2025 it broke it’s own record. The Blocos themselves were responsible for 6,8 million people.

How to Be in the Rio Carnival Parade?

Want to join the parade instead of just watching? Parade with Rio & Learn RioLIVE!

Is Carnival in Rio Worth It?

BABY, IT’S THE BEST PARTY IN THE WORLD! 🎉🔥

The Sambódromo parades will leave you speechless—with dazzling floats, breathtaking costumes, and the world’s best samba dancers.

The blocos (street parties) are wild, vibrant, and free—some gather over a million people, while others feel like a private neighborhood party. No matter where you go, the energy is contagious!

What Is the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro Called?

In Portuguese, it’s simply “Carnaval.”

You might also hear “Carnaval Carioca” (since “Carioca” refers to people from Rio). Either way, it’s the biggest, most iconic Carnival celebration on the planet! 🎭✨

When Was the First Rio Carnival?

The first recorded Carnival in Rio de Janeiro was in 1723, brought by Portuguese immigrants from the Azores, Madeira, and Cape Verde. It started with Entrudo, a festival where people playfully threw water and limes at each other—a wild beginning for what became the world’s most extravagant celebration!

Where Does Rio Carnival Take Place?

🎭 Sambódromo Marquês de Sapucaí – he famous Rio Carnival parade takes place at the stadium designed by Oscar Niemeyer.

🎉 All Over Rio! – Blocos happen in Copacabana, Ipanema, Santa Teresa, Laranjeiras, and beyond. Carnival is everywhere!

Who Won Rio Carnival 2025?

In 2025, Beija-Flor de Nilópolis won Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival championship, earning their 15th title in the school’s history. Their parade, “Laíla de Todos os Santos, Laíla de Todos os Sambas,” paid tribute to Laíla, one of the most influential figures in Beija-Flor’s legacy, and it was also marked by Neguinho da Beija-Flor’s farewell as the school’s iconic lead singer after decades on the avenue. The performance achieved the maximum score of 270 points, securing first place among the 12 samba schools in the Special Group, with Grande Rio finishing just 0.1 behind.

If you’re coming to Rio and want Carnival to feel less overwhelming (and way more magical), keep an eye on our RioLIVE! calendar! We love turning big Rio moments into real-life Portuguese practice.

Your Turn!

Would you rather dance at a bloco or watch the Sambódromo parade? 🤩 What are your favorite Carnival songs? Tell us in the comments! 🎭🎶

Click on the links below to see more related Dicas
Rio Carnival at Sambadrome
What is a Samba School
Rio Street Carnival
Brazilian Samba