One of the world's largest carnival and the most spectacular human celebration on earth — Rio's Carnival in the Sambódromo (the parade venue designed by Oscar Niemeyer) runs for 5 days in February/March before Ash Wednesday, with 12 samba schools competing over two nights in elaborate productions that require years of preparation. Tickets: arquibancadas (bleachers, ~USD$50) to camarotes (luxury boxes, USD$500+). The street parties (blocos) run for 3 weeks: Monobloco, Cordão do Bola Preta, and Simpatia é Quase Amor are the essential free blocos.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
The world’s greatest party — 5 days, 200+ samba schools, and millions on the streets. The Sambódromo parade is the main event; the blocos (street parties) are free and equally essential.
What Stands Out
- Sambódromo parade: 12 samba schools, 80,000-person floats, costumes that cost millions to create
- Book 6–12 months ahead: good seats and accommodation for Carnival book out that far
- Blocos (street parties): free, run for 3 weeks before Ash Wednesday, spread across all neighborhoods
- Essential blocos: Monobloco (biggest), Cordão do Bola Preta (oldest, Carnival Friday), Simpatia é Quase Amor (Ipanema)
- Samba schools rehearsals: visit in the months before Carnival — usually free or USD$10–20
- Note: Carnival is not just February — the rehearsal season begins in October