The world-renowned Rio de Janeiro Carnival is set to commence on Friday, ushering in a vibrant week-long celebration that will run until March 8. This annual cultural festival boasts a spectacular array of Brazilian parades, music, dance, and culinary delights.
Revelers take part in the “Ceu Na Terra” (or Heaven on Earth) block party during a pre-Carnival parade in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, February 22, 2025. REUTERS/Lucas Landau
Carnival in Rio traces its origins to ancient Greek and Roman festivals honoring deities like Dionysus and Bacchus. These early celebrations evolved through the centuries, blending with Portuguese and African cultural influences to form the modern Brazilian Carnival. Today, it stands as a testament to the country’s diverse heritage.
A cornerstone of the festivities is the samba parade, where over 70 samba schools compete in elaborate performances at the iconic Sambadrome stadium. These parades showcase floats, dazzling costumes, and meticulously choreographed dances, reflecting months of preparation. Beyond the Sambadrome, the city comes alive with street parties known as “blocos,” where locals and tourists alike join in spontaneous celebrations throughout Rio’s neighborhoods.
Members of the transgender group prepare for the street rehearsal of the Paraiso do Tuiuti samba school, at the warehouse in the Samba City complex, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, February 24, 2025. REUTERS/Tita Barros
Carnival is a feast for the senses. Street vendors line the avenues, offering an array of traditional Brazilian dishes. One staple is “feijoada,” a hearty black bean stew with pork, traditionally enjoyed on Saturdays during Carnival.
Another popular treat is “pão de queijo,” cheese-filled bread balls that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. For attendees craving something savory, “coxinhas” are a must-try: deep-fried dough filled with seasoned chicken, shaped to resemble a drumstick. Seafood enthusiasts can savor “bolinhos de bacalhau,” codfish fritters that are crispy and flavorful.
Revelers take part in the “Cortejo das Minas”, a block party dedicated to Oscar-nominated Brazilian actress Fernanda Torres, during a pre-Carnival parade in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil February 23, 2025. REUTERS/Pilar Olivares
Attendees with a sweet tooth will delight in “brigadeiros,” rich chocolate truffles rolled in sprinkles, and “quindim,” a custard made from sugar, egg yolks, and ground coconut.
With over a million visitors expected to descend upon Rio for Carnival 2025, early planning is essential. Accommodations near key event locations, such as the Sambadrome, tend to fill up quickly. Tickets for the main parades are available in several categories, catering to different preferences and budgets. And while the scheduled events will surely be memorable, immersing oneself in the local “blocos” offers an authentic experience of Rio like no other.
Dogs wearing costumes attend the “Blocao” dog carnival parade, during pre-carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, February 23, 2025. REUTERS/Tita Barros
