The Story of Rio Carnival

When it comes to global celebrations, Brazil’s Rio Carnival undoubtedly makes its mark. This event, known for its grandeur, is not just a modern festivity. It’s a historical pageant that speaks volumes about Brazil’s cultural evolution. While today we see participants dancing to the electrifying beats of samba, the carnival’s roots are much more diverse. The event has origins in ancient European pagan festivals, which found their way to Brazil through Portuguese colonizers. Over time, these traditions mingled with indigenous practices and African influences, brought by the enslaved people. This unique blend has given rise to a carnival that, today, stands as a symbol of Brazil’s diverse cultural fabric. As participants parade down the streets, what we’re witnessing isn’t just a party; it’s a vibrant storytelling session that narrates Brazil’s multifaceted history.

Masks and Secrets of Venice Carnival

Italy’s Venice Carnival is another spectacle that captivates the imagination of many. The city, with its historic canals and grand architecture, becomes even more enchanting during this event. Central to this carnival are the intricate masks that participants don. But these masks are not just accessories; they have a tale of their own. In ancient Venice, these masks were tools of equality. By wearing them, the identity of the person underneath was concealed, allowing everyone, whether noble or commoner, to celebrate side by side. It was a brief moment of freedom in a society structured on hierarchy. Today, while the tradition continues, these masks also serve as a testament to Venice’s rich history and the love for artistry and craftsmanship. The carnival, with its masquerade balls and gondola processions, is a living reminder of a Venice from another era.

Calypso Beats of Trinidad and Tobago

The islands of Trinidad and Tobago offer a carnival experience that’s rooted in music, particularly Calypso. This genre, characterized by its catchy rhythms and insightful lyrics, serves as the heartbeat of the carnival. Historically, Calypso was more than just music. It was a voice for the people, a means to communicate stories, relay news, and even protest injustices. During the colonial period, enslaved Africans used this medium to express their pain, hopes, and dreams. The carnival became an avenue for this expression, a space where through music and dance, a community could come together, remember their history, and look forward to a brighter future. Today, the carnival in Trinidad and Tobago remains a significant event, with Calypso maintaining its position as a storyteller, chronicling the islands’ journey, challenges, and aspirations.

The Vibrant Essence of Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is a celebration that resonates with vibrant colors, dynamic parades, and a spirit of joy that engulfs the entire city. But there’s more to this festivity than just beads and floats. Tracing its origins back to medieval Europe, Mardi Gras made its way to the United States through French settlers in the 18th century. Today, it stands as a melange of various traditions, from the religious to the secular. For many, it’s a period of revelry before the onset of Lent, a time for reflection and repentance in Christian traditions. Yet, beyond the religious underpinnings, Mardi Gras has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Krewes, or organizations, each contribute their unique touch to the parade, with handcrafted floats and intricate costumes, telling tales of mythology, history, and social commentary. As streets echo with jazz and the city gets drenched in purple, gold, and green, Mardi Gras captures the essence of New Orleans, celebrating its diverse culture, rich history, and the indomitable spirit of its people.

End Note: Celebrating Our Shared Stories

Carnivals, in all their glory, are more than just annual events filled with music and dance. They’re global storytellers, narrating tales of cultures, histories, and communities. As we move from one carnival to the next, from Rio’s samba dances to Venice’s masquerade balls, there’s a realization that despite the geographical boundaries, humanity shares common stories. We all celebrate, remember, hope, and dream. And through these carnivals, these shared experiences come to the forefront. As the final beats fade and the streets clear, the stories linger, offering a reflection of our collective journey and the unifying threads that bind us all.

The post Discovering the Stories Behind Carnivals Around the World appeared first on Locob Loco.

Preparing for the Journey: Essentials and Tips

To embark on this festive journey, meticulous preparation becomes crucial. It’s not just about packing bags but ensuring the journey is as seamless as possible. Tools for navigation, festival attire, snacks, and other essentials must be checked off the list. For Jeep Wrangler aficionados gearing up for carnival road trips, selecting the Best Soft Top for Jeep Wrangler is an investment in superior craftsmanship and enduring style, enhancing the overall driving experience. You can choose here the best ones. Detailed route planning, understanding the terrains, and prepping the car for long stretches are essential for an uninterrupted experience. Equally important is capturing moments, so a camera or a good smartphone is indispensable.

Sights and Stops: Must-Visit Locations En Route

While the carnival remains the ultimate goal, the road leading there is sprinkled with magic. Picture quaint towns with their own mini-festivals, majestic landmarks echoing tales of yore, and untouched natural vistas perfect for impromptu picnics. Such detours make the trip multidimensional. It’s about pausing, exploring, and then driving on. Every mile covered unravels new tales, making the journey an anthology of unforgettable experiences.

Carnivals Worth the Drive: Global Highlights

Some festivals have made their mark globally, becoming magnets for travelers. Events like Rio Carnival and Mardi Gras are not just about the colorful parades but the deeper cultural underpinnings that give them soul. These carnivals, with their historical significance and unparalleled grandeur, beckon travelers from every corner of the world. Reaching them by car amplifies the experience, converting it from a mere visit to a profound journey that offers a deeper connection to the festivities.

Turning the Drive into an Experience: Playlists and Entertainment

Driving has its rhythms, which when paired with the perfect tunes, becomes poetry in motion. A tailored playlist, which evokes the spirit of the carnival ahead, can elevate the travel experience. Think of melodies that mirror landscapes or songs echoing the festivity’s spirit. An entertaining journey isn’t just about the tunes. Interactive games, captivating audiobooks, and of course, the conversations make the miles fly by. And for those seeking more, also read our guide on other entertainment essentials for road trips.

A Closer Look: The Rio Carnival Road Trip

Rio de Janeiro, a city that pulses with rhythm, becomes even more alive during its legendary carnival. But the journey to Rio is as captivating as the event itself. The drive promises coastal stretches, insights into Brazilian culture, and a crescendo of excitement as the city nears. By the time the carnival begins, the road has already offered a vibrant prologue to the festivities.

Driving Through Europe: The Venice Carnival

Venturing through Europe with Venice as the destination is a dream journey. Each mile covered is a step back in time, with historical landmarks, art-laden streets, and diverse cultures waiting to be explored. As the silhouette of Venice emerges, the anticipation peaks. The Venice Carnival, with its masks and gondolas, becomes the highlight of this European adventure, but the road there ensures the buildup is equally unforgettable.

Making the Most of Your Road Trip: Travel Hacks

Road trips to globally renowned carnivals aren’t just about driving from point A to B. They’re an intricately woven tapestry of experiences, and the right travel hacks can make the difference between a regular trip and a legendary adventure. Leveraging modern technology, like navigational apps, can lead you to paths less traveled, revealing hidden treasures along the route. However, traditional methods, like consulting locals or relying on physical maps, offer their own charm and surprises. They might introduce you to an old café with the best local cuisine or a scenic vantage point absent from online maps. During peak carnival seasons, towns and cities can get crowded. Hence, prior reservations, understanding of peak traffic hours, and knowledge of alternate routes can help in avoiding congestions and making the journey more pleasurable.

Safety and Parking at Busy Carnival Destinations

Carnivals, with their burst of colors, music, and celebrations, are magnets for tourists and locals alike. This surge in attendees often leads to crowded streets and parking challenges. Being proactive can make all the difference. Researching designated parking areas, potential road closures, and local traffic guidelines ahead of time can alleviate last-minute stress. Booking parking spots in advance, especially in prime locations, can be a game-changer. Moreover, it’s essential to prioritize safety – both personal and vehicular. Investing in anti-theft devices, using well-lit parking areas, and storing valuables out of sight can add a layer of security. After all, peace of mind enhances the overall carnival experience.

Conclusion: Capturing the Essence of the Journey

As the final float of the carnival passes and the euphoria begins to settle, what remains are memories – vibrant, varied, and vivid. Every road trip, especially one that leads to an iconic carnival, is a narrative punctuated with moments of wonder, discovery, laughter, and introspection. Beyond the destination, it’s the pit stops, the unplanned detours, the local interactions, and the shared stories that enrich the journey. Even as the carnival’s melodies echo in the mind, the hum of the car engine, the stretches of open roads, and the landscapes whizzing by, leave an indelible mark. This road trip, more than just a means to an end, becomes a cherished chapter in the traveler’s book of adventures, urging them to hit the road once more, in search of another story, another carnival.

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The Rio de Janeiro Carnival

The Rio de Janeiro Carnival is a vibrant festival happening every year in Rio de Janeiro. This is the time of celebrating Brazilian culture. This time is associated with colorful parades, samba dancing, music, and beautiful costumes. Apart from simply enjoying an incredibly festive atmosphere, a couple will find many things to do during this Carnival. 

• Join in the street parties or “blocos” where locals and tourists dance to samba music. “Blocos” are free to attend. There you can expect energetic music, dancing, and numerous people dressed in colorful costumes. The most famous “blocos” are Bola Preta, Cordão da Bola Preta, and Sargento Pimenta.
• Or if you don’t feel like dancing, you can just visit the Sambadrome stadium and watch the parade of samba schools. The Sambadrome is the epicenter of the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, and this parade is an unforgettable spectacle with all these colors and non-stop samba. 
• Those who like to get the best view ever can take a helicopter and enjoy watching everything from the top. 
• Rio de Janeiro is also home to many beautiful beaches, such as Copacabana and Ipanema, where you can chill and catch the sun after having fun at the carnival. You can also explore Rio’s cultural landmarks, including the Christ the Redeemer statue and the historic downtown area.
• Nightlife will not disappoint you as well. There are many bars and nightclubs where you can enjoy live music, dancing, and cocktails. 

If you are ready to experience this festival of love and life, plan your romantic tour in advance as many things get booked so fast. 

How much does it cost?

Overall, you can expect to spend around $1500 to $3000 per person for a one-week trip to Rio de Janeiro during the carnival season. Carnival Fees are charged separately, so the total fee will depend a lot on the popularity of events and the number of them that you want to visit. For example, tickets to the Sambadrome Parade can range from $100 to $1000, depending on the seating area and the day of the parade.

The prices for accommodations during the carnival season usually vary a lot depending on the location, type of lodging, and availability. To save money, try to book in advance. Even like that, you can expect prices from $100 to $400 per night.

Cologne Carnival, Germany

Cologne Carnival is also known as the “Fifth Season”. It is one of the most famous carnivals in Germany, which attracts tourists from all around the globe. The Rose Monday Parade is one of the main activities of the carnival. It always happens on the Monday before Ash Wednesday. The parade is a spectacular view with hundreds of floats, bands, and dancers.

In addition to the parade, there are many street parties, called “Sitzungen” or “Kappenfeste,” hosted by local pubs and clubs and featuring live music, dancing, and plenty of beer. So fun is guaranteed for you. The carnival season is the best time to try traditional German carnival food and drinks, such as “Kölsch” beer, “Reibekuchen” (potato pancakes), and “Berliner” (donuts). 

You can also rent costumes and dress up in traditional carnival suits to fully feel the atmosphere of the scene. 

And for sure don’t miss the Cologne Old Town, its nice narrow streets are charming even without any events and they get even more beautiful when they are full of carnival buzz. 

How much does it cost?

Overall, you can expect to spend around $1500 to $3000 per person for a one-week trip to Cologne during the carnival season. Try to book accommodation and tickets in advance as this can save a considerable amount of money. Carnival events, such as the Rose Monday Parade, are free to attend, yet some balls require a prepaid ticket. The cost of a mid-range hotel room during the carnival season can range from $100 to $400 per night, depending on the location and amenities. Prices often get higher during this time, so book in advance to have the best choice and value for money.

Stay tuned! In the next post, we will continue the list of the most romantic carnivals in the world. 

The post The Most Romantic Carnivals Around the Globe for Couples [Part 1] appeared first on Locob Loco.

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Venice Carnival

The Venice Carnival originated in 1162 to commemorate the victory of the Venetian Republic against its foe, the Patriarch of Aquileia. Venice’s residents congregated in St Mark’s Square to dance as well as celebrate their triumph. The victory has been commemorated in the alleys of Venice ever since

The festival lasts ten days, during which people are dressed up and participate in organized parades or simple street processions. The clothes are seventeenth-century Venetian gowns that look like they came from a Canaletto picture. During this time, numerous activities and balls are planned.

During previous Venice Carnivals, the alleys of Venice were packed with individuals wearing masks to conceal their identities and eliminate any social differences. Furthermore, masks permitted a wearer to conceal his identity while engaging in licentious or dissolute behavior.

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Traditions of the Venice Carnival

Venice is a city of exceptional elegance. These are elite fashion, star workshops and precious fabrics. Venice is a city of entertainment, and the Carnival has become the embodiment of the freedom of the seething imagination of its inhabitants. There were times when the Venice Carnival lasted up to 6 months a year – starting in October and ending in March.

An unrestrained libertarianism lurked under the masks that roamed the streets, dined in osterias, and surreptitiously visited Venetian ridottos and casinos, where gambling was combined with masquerade incarnations. In those days, there was an expression in Venice – “a mask says more about a person than his face.” Whether the participants of the holiday became themselves, wearing a mask, or those who they always dreamed of being, remained the eternal secret of this period raging with passions.

The use of masks and symbolic images during the carnival period is an ancient tradition. It begins with the adaptation of the religious holidays of ancient Rome, during which it was possible to turn the social system upside down for a while. As soon as Christianity conquered these territories, this ritual underwent a change in content and form. The lower class (especially slaves) used to fill town squares for wild celebrations between dancing and music. This tradition has never stopped with Carnaval in Venice, carrying on the same goal: to provide the population with joyful activities with masks being an important part. Wearing a mask like this ensured complete anonymity and abolished any social distinction, like between rich and poor.

The Venetian carnival was a great way to let off some steam under the restrictive laws of Venice. And during these festivities, it’s not uncommon to ridicule authority and aristocracy. The official annual celebration of the carnival has been documented in a document dated 1296, when the Senate declared that the day before Lent was a holiday.

There were always jugglers, musicians and dancers performing in public places during the holidays. It was fun having a break from work and just relaxing. The Carnival in Venice was celebrated both at palaces, theatres, and cafes as well as in private gambling houses where the king was completely permissive. Masquerade balls may have begun in a palace ball but are still organized today and are now more exclusive than ever.

Venice has amazing folk traditions which are a part of the Venetian carnival. They take place in the squares, known as “campi”, and follow the traditional program every year. Each year’s Carnival celebration lasts for 2 weeks and its main events happen on the last, so-called “Fat Week”, Settimana Grassa. This week begins with Fat Thursday. The date of the beginning and end of the Carnival changes every year, but is traditionally observed in early February. Carnival is a movable, non-fixed holiday in the calendar that depends on Easter and always starts two weeks before Lent. The name of this period, from the Latin carnem and levare, that is, “exclude meat”, indicates the “fat week” before this period, when you should eat richly at the table.

Conclusion

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Every Venetian carnival, a water festival precedes it. A Rio di Cannaregio becomes the stage for light games and shows on the water. The next day’s parade of gondolas and Carnival costumes relieves this holiday. After the parade, participants are treated to traditional Venetian foods such as fritole and galani.

Masks are an essential part of any carnival and Venice is home to the “mascareri”–carnival artisans/mask makers who work throughout the year to bring your family or company’s face as needed for masquerades. These masters are known for their skills in designing and creating unique carnival accessories.

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The tradition of carnivals dates back to the fourth and fifth centuries in Europe. The first festivals appeared in Italy, where the word “carnival” (from Italian carne, “meat”, and carrus, “machine”) was born, and later in France and Germany. Typically, celebrations take place in February or early March before Lent. A typical carnival is a lavish, circus-like parade, street parties, colorful masks and costumes that take one’s breath away, and where the leading motif is the exuberance that precedes Lent. Carnivals have always been popular mainly in Catholic countries.

The Venice Carnival is probably the most famous of all the carnivals held in Europe. It was first held in 1296, and its purpose was unbridled merriment, and the Italian masks became a symbol of disregard for social status, gender and religion. Nowadays, the Venice Carnival is one of the largest in the world, its atmosphere, history and unique masks are unique.

Another popular European carnival takes place in Portugal on the island of Madeira. The Portuguese always have two parades: one official, which requires careful preparation and always falls on a Saturday, and the second, the fun parade “Trapalhao”, in which everyone can participate. The traditional carnival dish is malasadas, a Portuguese dessert that resembles the usual doughnuts. Malasadas are made to get rid of the dough and sugar in the house before Lent.

Still, almost everyone associates the word “carnival” with Rio de Janeiro. And that’s no accident. In 2004, it was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest in the world, and in 2017, it brought in $740 million in revenue for Brazil. The first carnival was held in 1840. Then the waltz and polka took center stage in the entertainment program until 1917, when Africans discovered the rhythms and beauty of samba to Brazilians, thus fundamentally turning the history of the holiday upside down.

The first samba school opened in 1928 and immediately attracted a lot of followers. Today, the number of institutions that teach passionate dance and vocal performance can not be counted. Throughout the year, students and school leaders practice and rehearse hard to show their achievements to a strict jury and the audience at the main party of the world. They have 80 minutes to prove their excellence and win. The jury assesses not only the technique of performance, but also the costumes, which sometimes tell a whole story.

Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago is almost as famous as carnival in Rio. For this small nation, February is the most anticipated month of the year. Many point out the similarities between the carnivals in Trinidad and Tobago and Rio de Janeiro, but in fact each is different in its own way. Historically, music is very important to the festivities in Trinidad and Tobago. The unique calypso melodies, born in the late 20th century thanks to the slaves on the sugar plantations, are the first thing associated with carnival. Recently, another genre, soca, which, although descended from calypso, has its own individual sound, has also become increasingly popular. Various competitions, limbo, singing and “steel bands” are another integral part of the festivities.

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The best winter carnivals in the world

February is the time of carnivals. During the last week before Lent, Catholics wanted to have one last laugh and had a boisterous feast with dressing up and fatty foods.

Carnival has long been the hallmark of Rio de Janeiro and Venice. Millions of tourists from all over the world go there to see the riot of colors and sounds with their own eyes. But no less interesting costume festivals with their own characteristics are held in dozens of places around the world.

In Russia, there is no large-scale costume holiday of its own yet: we are not used to having a noisy carnival on Shrovetide. RBC has selected seven of the most interesting carnivals from around the world.

Venice, Italy

Carnival in Venice is almost a thousand years old, the first documented mention of it dates back to 1094. The people of the Republic of Venice then celebrated loudly the tax privileges that gave them enormous advantages for Mediterranean trade.

Carnival was the golden age of the 18th century: for a week the virtuoso ladies and gentlemen were able to indulge in the pleasures of life with impunity, hiding their face under a mask. However, because of the revolutionary events of the end of the century the Italians had no time for masquerades. In the 1930s, Benito Mussolini banned carnival masks and festivities. The veto was lifted only in 1979 at the initiative of director Federico Fellini with the permission of the Pope.

Each year a new theme is invented for the masquerade. This time, the mood of the holiday is set by the slogan “Live in color. By the way, the Venice Carnival even has its own anthem, written by renowned fashion designer Pierre Cardin.

Traditionally, the carnival begins with the “Flight of Columbine”: a paper dove is launched from the bell tower of San Marco and the crowd of spectators is showered with a rain of confetti. After that, the main square turns into a theater stage. Gradually the performance moves to the narrow streets of the city, where the skills of musicians, dancers, jugglers and magicians demonstrate their skills. In the old palaces are balls, which you can get only if you have a costume. To appear at this time in Venice without a fine dress and fine masks is considered bad form. One of the most important events of the carnival is the competition for the best mask.

The tradition of carnival costumes dates back to the ancient Roman harvest festivals, the Saturnalia. During the festivities, slaves were allowed to sit at the same table with their lords, and so that class prejudice did not interfere with communication, they hid their faces under masks.

The carnival ends with the burning of a straw effigy, a rite that symbolizes the renewal of nature. The bells of the Church of San Francesco della Vigna ring to signal the beginning of Lent.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

A hot sight under the Brazilian sun is the carnival in Rio de Janeiro. The main attribute of the Brazilian carnival is the samba school parade. The movements of this dance came from the ritual African dances “semba,” and Portuguese folk songs were initially used as musical accompaniment. The first samba, written specifically for carnival, appeared in 1916 and was called “On the Telephone.

To the drumbeat, decorated platforms with dancers in shiny feather costumes float down the sambadrome. Today, samba schools are amateur associations that spend an entire year preparing for the carnival.

Each school chooses its own performance theme, according to which it sews costumes and makes scenery. One school can perform for up to an hour and a half, and half-naked dancers are accompanied by an entourage of several thousand people dressed in the colors of the school. Often famous artists and athletes are glimpsed in the carnival entourage.

This is not just a colorful spectacle, but also a competition. Brazilians cheer for their favorite school as passionately as they cheer for their soccer club – with cheers and applause. TV broadcasts from the sambodrome run for 10 hours a day throughout the carnival. Competitions take place in several leagues, with a championship performance by the winning school rounding out the festivities.

For the duration of the carnival, the mayor resigns, handing over the key to the city to the carnival king, Momo, who is elected from among the townspeople.

For a whole week, no one works in the country and car traffic stops on the streets. The festival fills all the beaches and streets: dancers and musicians, balls, parties and processions – you do not get bored these days.

By the way, many Rio residents flee the city for those days from the crowds of tourists and noise. However, carnival reigns throughout Brazil at this time, with samba school parades and concerts taking place in most cities.

Lucerne, Switzerland

In Lucerne, Switzerland, since the twelfth century, there has been an annual carnival of monsters, beasts and ghosts called Fastnacht. Legend has it that the carnival tradition began with the triumphant return of the local warriors after their victory over the Austrians in 1446.

The Fastnacht takes place six days before Lent, on Muddy Thursday. The festivities are started with a loud cannon shot, after which a man dressed as the legendary military commander emerges from the doors of the town hall. Street musicians, acrobats and dancers take part in the festivities. Scenes from Commedia dell’arte and impromptu concerts are staged in the squares, while the nighttime festivities spill over into bars and clubs.

Friday, Saturday and Sunday are not officially considered carnivals, but residents and tourists in Lucerne continue to have fun. On Monday, called Fat Monday, there is a big costume parade broadcast on Swiss television. Residents think carefully about their images and costumes. Here you can find orange cockroaches and astronauts, cartoon characters and Indians. And usually families or groups of friends dress in the same style.

The culmination of the holiday falls on Fat Tuesday: on this day there is a concert of monsters, and everything ends with a torch procession.

Remarkably, carnival days are not days off in Lucerne, and townspeople take vacations at their own expense. For these five days, offices, museums, and stores are closed in the city.

New Orleans, USA

Catholics call our Shrovetide counterpart Mardi Gras, which translates from French as “Fat Tuesday. One of the most colorful places to celebrate Mardi Gras is New Orleans. Residents of that French neighborhood celebrated the arrival of spring with a costume show, which over the years has grown into a full-fledged carnival.

In more than a century of celebrations, Mardi Gras has been canceled only about a dozen times: because of the yellow fever epidemic, the American Civil War and the World Wars. For a long time, blacks and whites in New Orleans had two independent carnivals. Incidentally, one of the first kings of the “black” carnival was the great Louis Armstrong. It wasn’t until the 1960s that Afro-Orleans took to the main streets of the city-before they had to confine themselves to the backstreets of their neighborhoods. Now it is a single carnival, combining several different parades. The most interesting are the Bacchus Parade, where each platform is dedicated to some pleasant vice, and the Indian Parade. There are also numerous balls, contests, and processions during Mardi Gras. Since New Orleans is the cradle of jazz, it is this music that sets the mood for the celebration.

The main characters at Mardi Gras are the carnival king and queen, who lead the procession. It’s considered that they began to be chosen in 1872, when fate brought the royal person to New Orleans on the eve of the holiday: the brother of the last Russian Tsar, Grand Duke Alexei Romanov, came there after his beloved. The organizers of the holiday were not confused and presented him with a funny crown.

A motley procession in masquerade costumes moved through the streets, and symbolic gifts such as beads, toys and carnival coins – doubloons – flew from the platforms into the crowd. To earn the beads, the girls bare their breasts. This custom, and the lifting of the ban on drinking alcohol on the streets during Mardi Gras, is why Americans call New Orleans the crazy city.

Mardi Gras lasts all day long, but at midnight sharp the carnival must end or else the souls of the revelers go straight to the clutches of the devil.

On this day, you must try the cake of the three kings, which looks like a multicolored pretzel with cinnamon. Inside it is baked a small figurine of a child symbolizing Jesus. Whoever gets this piece will have good luck all year long, and during the next Mardi Gras he must treat his friends to lunch.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife

The largest carnival in Europe takes place in the Canary Islands. For its scope in 1987, he even got in the Guinness Book of Records: 250 thousand people at the same time dancing salsa in the street.

Carnival on the island “brought” the Spaniards. They later began to persecute the street celebrations – during the Franco regime, even the word “carnival” was banned. However, the inhabitants of the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, ignored the ban and against all odds arranged the holiday. Officially the carnival returned to Tenerife with democracy in the 60’s. To attract tourists there was a “Winter Festival”.

The festivities usually last for a month, but the main events take place during the week. Carnival is unthinkable without a queen, who is chosen at the beginning of the holiday. The candidates for this honorary role prepare for the competition throughout the year. The unimaginably beautiful costume becomes a prerequisite for participation, as the girls can sometimes barely move due to its complexity and quirkiness.

Only then does the carnival come into its own. The city is flooded with costume parades, a parade of vintage cars, the rhythms of the rumba and samba sounds from everywhere, and rides are set up on the waterfront. The highlight of the island’s masquerade is the Murgas competition – performers of satirical rhymes on topical issues, as well as the election of the “most-amazing” among men dressed up as women. The children have their own carnival with the election of a little queen and processions.

The festive week ends with the “funeral of the Sardine. A large papier-mâché fish is burned at the stake and the fish ashes are buried on the beach, to the inconsolable lamentations of the “widows” represented by the mustachioed men.

Cologne, Germany

Carnival fun is not alien to the pedantic restrained Germans. At the end of winter, Cologne hosts a carnival, which for its scope and duration is even called the Fifth Season.

Preparations for the carnival begin in advance: On November 11 at 11:11 a.m., “carnival meetings” begin all over the city. Representatives of carnival communities gather in pubs and compose the festival slogan and song to table songs, and discuss the candidates for the main characters – the prince, the peasant and the maiden. And the carnival maiden is traditionally played by a man.

But all the fun begins only after three months. On Holy Thursday at 11:11 a.m. women dressed as witches and devils get the key from the mayor and proclaim the matriarchy for 24 hours. On this day, they can make fun of men by painting their faces with lipstick, kissing strangers unexpectedly or cutting off their ties. If desired, the “victim” can be invited for a mug of beer, a negative response on this day is not allowed. Experienced Germans slyly and go out on the streets in paper ties. However, once an unknowingly large American official came to the carnival in a tie for a few thousand euros, for which he soon enough paid the price.

On Saturday there is a procession of spirits, which allows people in costumes of ghosts and other other otherworldly creatures to participate. Sunday is children’s carnival time, with school children putting on their own processions and masquerades while the adults gain strength before Pink Monday.

The first day of the week is the main parade with the trio of heroes at the helm. The residents of Cologne have a lot of fun. They dress up in original costumes and carry papier-mache figures of political figures through the streets. There’s Putin in a crown and bear suit, Angela Merkel in a bikini, and Barack Obama the Superman. Participants in the parade throw candy to spectators – it takes up to 150 tons of candy every year to make an edible rain. To watch the show, tourists take seats on the sidewalks hours in advance, and some enterprising Germans even rent out their windows as observation points.

From there, the fun slowly winds down. On the evening of Violet Tuesday, a straw effigy is burned, getting rid of sins accumulated during the year before Lent.

Throughout the festival there are concerts, mock parties and the local beer, “Kölsch”, pours like a river.

Cologne’s carnival comes to an end on Ash Wednesday. The priests draw crosses of ash on the foreheads of the parishioners, forcing them to think about eternity.

Argentina, Entre Ríos Province, Gualeguaychú City

The longest carnival takes place in the Argentine town with the difficult-to-pronounce name Gualeguaychu. The festivities begin almost at the height of summer just after New Year’s Eve and continue every Saturday until early March. Locals call this time of carnival and love.

Argentine Carnival in the city of Gualeguaychu, a colorful, unique celebration of the fun of the famous artistic schools under the names: Marí-Marí (Marí-Marí), Kamarr (Kamarr), Papelitos (Papelitos – paper or confetti) and many others, in colorful and colorful costumes by which you can recognize certain characters, performing in synchronized choreography with their themed parade carriages expressing the elegant style of the Argentine people.

Carnivals in Argentina began as early as the Spaniards in the 17th century. Today, traditional costume parades are held in February in many cities in Argentina, but it is a small town Gualeguaychu near the border with Uruguay, for almost 30 years, has been the carnival capital of the country.

On Saturday night, the whole of Gualeguaychu and thousands of tourists make their way to the sambadrome, which is a half-kilometer street with bleachers on both sides. The sambadrome of Gualeguaychu has a capacity of 40,000 people. The cost of tickets for the carnival in recalculation on Russian money is from 300 to 5000 rubles. Near the sambadrom you can buy feathers, masks and hats, as well as try on heavy carnival outfits.

The action starts at about 10-11 p.m. and lasts about five hours. During this time, the spectators are shown their art by more than a thousand artists from various compars – carnival theater and dance groups of amateur artists. Each compares has its own style and costumes.

The first to hit the sambodrome track are the girls in feathers advertising the event’s sponsors. They warm up the audience by throwing souvenirs on the bleachers. Then, to the sound of fiery samba, a huge platform appears, surrounded by dancers.

Following the gnome, fairy castles, dragons, giants and even a cabaret platform accompanied by beautiful women dressed in feathers alternated before the eyes of the enthusiastic and fiercely cheering tributes to the different samba schools.

The carnival in little Gualeguaychu has a homely atmosphere, with parade participants forgetting their roles, running up to the stands to hug their relatives and neighbors, fans dancing, shouting, throwing confetti at the police and each other, and trying to take pictures with half-naked dancers.

The festivities wrap up at about 4 a.m. The townspeople scatter to their homes with shouts and songs, and the tourists who came especially for the carnival rush to the night bus, which takes them to Buenos Aires in 3 hours.

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The best carnivals in the world

The Brazilian Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is the biggest, sexiest and most colorful carnival in the world.Four days a year, in February, 7 weeks before Easter, Rio de Janeiro becomes the capital of world fun and revelry.Tours to the carnival in Rio are a chance to experience an exotic mixture of ancient Indian traditions and customs of black slaves with European sophistication, a beautiful, expensive and sexy spectacle for the world public.

Carnival in Rio opens with a symbolic transfer of the keys of the city by the mayor of Rio to the Queen of the festival, which means revelry, fun and dancing for everyone.During the carnival in Rio de Janeiro, no one works, no cars drive on the streets, crowds of half-dressed cheerful people walk.The highlight of the Brazilian carnival is the dancing, especially the Brazilian samba.On the central avenue of Rio de Janeiro in bright costumes of silk and feathers, Brazilian samba schools compete in the skill and beauty of productions.Famous dancers in piquant costumes walk down the alley, accompanied by popular actors, musicians and other celebrities, to the carnival march “Rise of the Wings”.Carnival in Rio is fun joking with each other on the first day of the carnival, dancing and fun on all the others.

The Venice Carnival in Italy

Is the oldest and most famous carnival in the world. Carnival in Venice takes place every year from February 13 to 24, when all of Venice and guests of the city dress up in carnival costumes and masks made of silk, velvet and brocade. Leading fashion houses for the Venice Carnival sew dizzying carnival costumes worth more than 10,000 euros. Traditionally, the Venetian Carnival opens with the ancient festival of Venice – Festa delle Marie, organized in honor of the release of local girls from the captivity of pirates. The program of the carnival in Venice includes: a festival of confetti, a procession of hundreds of Pierrots, Harlequins, Columbine and other characters, a presentation of comedy dell’arte. The Venetian carnival is also famous for holding masquerade balls in ancient palaces, among which the water masquerade, “Casanova Ball” and “Golden Night” are especially popular.

The Cologne Carnival in Germany

is an opportunity to see sensible Germans having fun and being relaxed.Carnival in Cologne begins on “Ladies’ Thursday”, when women gathered in the central square “capture” the city hall.Tours to the carnival in Cologne, which is held annually in February, offer tourists to see thematic performances, performances by musicians and take part in the festive processions of the carnival in Germany.Everyone except the police and medics participates in costume balls and street parades.The main parade of the Cologne carnival begins on “pink” Monday, when platforms with flowers, sweets and dancing, singing Germans in bright clothes move along the central street of Cologne.The Cologne Carnival ends on Ash Wednesday, which is considered a day of penance.

The Masquerade King Carnival in Nice in France

is the most colorful carnival. Nice Carnival tours are a chance to see the French Carnival, which takes place from February 13 to March 1 on the Cte d’Azur.A special atmosphere of the holiday is created by the daily Flower Battles on the English embankment, during which the most beautiful girls and boys in bright costumes from huge colorful processions resembling giant baskets throw bouquets of flowers: roses, lilies, carnations and mimosas into the crowd of spectators.The famous illuminated carnival processions take place in the evenings – 150,000 lamps illuminate the city center, houses are covered with giant painted panels, and colorful light shows begin with the participation of huge carnival figures made of papier;.

The Basel Carnival in Switzerland

is about 15,000 costumed participants.The carnival opens at four in the morning with “Morgestraich” – a morning procession, during which the lights go out in the city, and hundreds of people come out with flashlights.Basel Carnival tours are a chance to try the famous onion and cheese pie and toasted flour soup on the day of the carnival, and take part in the traditional carnival parade at noon.

The Goan Carnival in India

takes place at the end of February – beginning of March in Goa under the slogan “eat, drink and have fun”.The carnival in Goa opens with a traditional carnival procession.A noisy procession of colorful motorcades and decorated cars passes through the streets of Panaji from the Patto Bridge to the Academy of Arts.Goan Carnival tours are carnival fun in famous Goan clubs and theaters, fireworks in the streets, and frothy rivers of fenna, a traditional Indian beer.

The Tenerife carnival in Spain

is interesting with the traditional Coso parade, which is prepared for several months.Latin American dances in the city square include samba, rumba, folia, etc.- all spectators participate without exception.It is not for nothing that in 1987 the carnival in Tenerife was listed in the Guinness Book of Records – 200,000 people took part in the dances.The main principle of the carnival in Tenerife is freedom from all rules, and in order for everything to pass with impunity, masks are worn.

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The game was inspired by the biggest street festival in the world, and its flashy design, highly detailed symbols, rewarding bonuses and 5000 coin prizes make the game even more exciting.

Experience The Brazilian Party Online

Carnaval Forever is a5-reel, 10-paylinevideo slot that clearly illustrates why Betsoft is so well known for creating graphic-rich games.The reels are set in a carnivalesque setting, and the rich color scheme of red, purple, orange and blue complements the game perfectly. You can play this slot and test your luck at melhores cassinos online brasil

On the reels you’ll find a variation of themed icons, and there are 4 gorgeous dancers in wonderful costumes, the Carnival King and Queen and the Wild featuring an actor on an elaborate stage.Icons with low values are A, K, Q, J and 10, and they have been decorated with a festive font.

Coin bets start at 0.01 for a minimum bet of 0.10 per spin and go up to a maximum of 10 coins.If you want to speed up the action, you can activate the AutoPlay option, which allows you to set your bet and spin the reels 100 times automatically.

Boost Your Slot Machine Winnings

Before we talk more about the bonuses of this online slot, there are 2 additional ways to expand your bonus potential.

The first is by activating the feature.To do this, you simply double your bet, and you will & your entry to the free spins bonus round.

The second option is to activate the Gamble Game; after each winning round.Here, you can try to double your slot winnings by betting on a coin flip.You will lose your winnings if your prediction is wrong, so be careful!

Wilds, Scatters And Free Spins

Carnival Forever has a Wild and Scatter symbol, and both add extra value when they appear.Wild can participate in all regular symbols on the reels to complete a winning combination, and getting 5 of them on a payline pays the highest payout.

Scatter is the key to activating the free spin bonus if you have not opted in to the purchase feature.To get 5, 7 or 9 free spins, you need to get 3, 4 or 5 of these icons anywhere on the reels.If the Carnival Queen Scatter appears during the bonus round, you will be rewarded with 2 extra free spins.

Festive And Fun Online Slots Action

Carnaval Forever is one of the most immersive slots to be released, and it delivers an unforgettable gaming experience.You can join the fun at Vera & John and see why this slot is one of the best!

Carnival Forever Slot Machine

Carnaval Forever is a 5 reel, 10 payline slot by Betsoft.Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Rio’s biggest festival on the reels when you win big online.Cutting-edge graphics, smooth animations, exciting bonuses and a grand prize are all part of this wonderful game.

Jackpots

Separate Jackpot

This is a progressive jackpot that only applies to one slot.Accordingly, the amount accumulates more slowly, but nevertheless, it is still a big win.

Own Jackpot

Another subspecies of progressive jackpots, united by one casino.Here, too, you should not count on multimillion-dollar winnings, but the chance of getting such a jackpot is higher.

Network Jackpot

The prize fund of such a jackpot is accumulated through the slots of several online casinos that use the games of the same provider (NetEnt, Microgaming, BetSoft.The probability of winning here is small, but the amount is huge.

Fixed jackpot

In this type of jackpot, there is a certain amount set by the casino, which does not change.Accordingly, the number of players, the time spent playing or the size of the rounds do not affect the size of the winnings.The fixed jackpot is less popular than the progressive jackpot, but is also in demand. In addition to game types and jackpots, slots can be classified by the number of reels, paylines, paylines, themes, video quality, etc.However, the main thing is that your players like them.

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February 28-March 5

The street carnival in Tlaxcala is said to be a challenge to the high οοpοc society, which celebrated its holidays without inviting the pοοc οnc οnc οn the streets of Tlaxcala. The carnival costumes and masks look like papοdia to the high society.

There are seven οcοnοn groups of stage dress. The katrinae are the tpaedicοnne skeletons. The chivappyadο wear goatskin helmets and pretend to ride on wooden horses. The cuadrilles look like giant birds with brightly colored feathers of different birds. The dancers with their knives have metal knives attached to their ankles, which jingle as they dance. The chappο carry an ostrich feather adorned headstock. The members of the group Carnaval de Nativitas dressed in various costumes to commemorate May 5, the Day of Victory at the Battle of Puebla. Taοοpas with ribbons οdеtеs in blеlοe and holding colored ribbons tied to poles.

Mazatlán, Cinălοa

February 27-March 5

Carnival has been celebrated in Mazatlán since 1827. Every year more than 60,000 visitors attend the Carnival. The main events take place on the paths leading to the beach, to the Altas Cove.

During this time, two parades with the naval fleet will take place. Finally, in the Bay of Altas there will be a performance and a pirate-chase in commemoration of the historic defence of the poultry during the French siege in 1864.

During the eagerly-celebrated festival, numerous prizes in literature and poetry are awarded, concerts and the so-called “Flower Games” are held. The highlights of the carnival are the gacetagraphagraphical ceremonies.

Mérida, Yucatán

February 27th to March 6th

Carnival celebrations in the Yucatan are said to have begun in the late 16th century. The carnival in Merida seeks to emphasize the dοcοnymity of the pegyοn, therefore the use of flora and fauna is of great importance for the festivities. There will be a large children’s parade, Mexico’s only Kοbaca Kοmpapca, and a parade of Kopean nappοdas, with participants wearing typical Indian outfits. The carnival stretches for three kilometers in the direction of the Plaza Carnival.

Vibrant dance routines, art shows, competitions, concerts and parties, and gòctpοnοmic performances will all take place during the carnival in Mérida.

Puerto de Veracruz, Veracruz

February 27th to March 5th

Carnival in Veracruz has been celebrated since the mid-17th century. Later, the carnival was transformed into a masquerade. In recent times, the main carnival events in Veracruz have been held in the bay of the sea. A flotilla of brightly decorated boats will take the pοοxοο to all the pípcοοs of MałeCοn Veracruz. Each boat has its own οpecc ttle and its own dances. All who wish to do so can ride with them.

The land parades from March 2nd have been accompanied by powerful creatures, such as firecrackers, dancers, giants, and big heads. This year there will also be a parade of the pοοοmοbiles, dedicated to the spirit of old Havana, Pico de Janeiropο and the Hοvοg Οplaín.

There are also dance performances and salsa classes every day in the center of the city, for which everyone is welcome to join in. All evening carnival concerts in Veracruz are free.

Tepoztlán, Mοpeleοc

March 2 – 5

The main gepοοn of the carnival in Tepοtlán is the chinelο, a kοlοpit pepcοnаge from the days of kοlοnial Mexico. The carnival pοcеd as a papοdia of locals to the elegant banquets of the bourgeoisie. The carnival outfits were reminiscent of the appearance of the Spaniards of those times: masks with glassy eyes and protruding lobes, tunics decorated with large pobbins, large hats in the shape of a pepeunny konnyk.

The centerpiece of the carnival is the performance of the Chinese dancers who perform their famous dance, jumping in all directions to the rhythm of the tambourine.

Chinelο is not the only dance at the carnival in Teppercutlane. Others are no less lively οοpiccο οdеt, their οοdеd clothes bοgаtο decorated with feathers, bеcepοm and silver embroidery.

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Brazil is renowned for its beauty. Endless forest tropics and delightful beaches. Many islands and beaches on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. The most popular, which probably all people in the world is Copacabana. As well as the famous Iguazu Falls and the Amazon River. Many national parks and nature reserves.

Brazil’s culture is a great national heritage. Starting from holidays such as the famous carnival, as well as Brazilian cuisine, architecture, and much more.

There are also restrictions on entry. For example, you can not bring in and take out fish, manufactured in Brazil tobacco and alcoholic beverages and much more. Otherwise, you will learn more here. Without duty in Brazil you can bring clothes, cosmetics and some other things, but in a certain amount or a set amount.

Climate in Brazil is famous for its variety. But mostly the climate there is hot. Winters with frosts you will definitely not catch.

Now let’s talk about where best to go. It is best to choose for a trip from December to March, as in Brazil in this period of summer. And just in February there is a spectacular Brazilian Carnival. There are also disadvantages of the show as well as very high prices for hotels. In Rio de Janeiro is better to fly in the fall. It’s not as hot and there are few tourists.

In recent years, Brazil has flourished economically. In connection with this it was not very cheap country. But you can save money on food in restaurants and take one dish for two, because they are very large there.

The currency there is the Brazilian real. Dollars and euros are easy to exchange. In Brazil, it is more profitable to change dollars. Find out in advance if the cards you have are serviced there. In this regard, just in case have cash. During summer prices go up.

The official language in Brazil is Portuguese, so it’s worth bringing a phrasebook.

Be sure to try the Brazilian cuisine, because it is very delicious. Also, popular are cane water and, of course, coffee.

Do not forget about safety. After all, Brazil is famous for crime. Do not wear a lot of jewelry so as not to attract attention. To be on the safe side, you can be vaccinated against some diseases. There are no problems with telephone and Internet.

What You Can and Can Not Do in Brasilia

1. Currency is best exchanged in banks, the rate at different institutions may vary, but not significantly. If possible, it’s worth exchanging more small denomination bills, because it will be much easier to pay with them.

2. You may also pay with a credit card (Perhaps it will be useful to you: https://teuscherfifthavenue.com/get-my-offer-capitalone-com/.) in large hotels and shopping centers. Consider that when paying for goods and services in cash, the customer may receive a favorable discount, and when paying by bank transfer discounts are rare.

3. The height of the tourist season is from December to February. At this time the prices for hotel accommodation significantly increase, so frugal tourists is better to postpone the trip to another period. The increase in prices also applies to many restaurants, as well as shopping centers.

4. In most restaurants the service charge is included in the bill, otherwise you must leave a tip of 10% of the order amount. It is customary to leave a gratuity to cab drivers as well, for this purpose it is enough to round up the amount to the nearest convenient one.

5. There are always police officers on duty in the city streets, so the situation in the city is quite calm. However, in public places you should carefully watch your personal belongings and be wary of pickpocketing. Cameras and cameras are best carried in the hand, not on the strap. You should not take any valuables or documents unnecessarily.

What Is the Attraction of Brazil?

Brazil is one of the most amazing and beautiful countries in the world. Dating it is a shock. It stuns with a kaleidoscope of bright colors, drives mad with the beauty of its women, and makes the heart beat to the rhythm of a passionate samba. Fantastic luxury carnival, the mysterious infinity of the Amazon jungle, an unimaginable abundance of tropical flowers, fruits and plants, an incredible variety of wildlife, gold beaches Copacabana and Bahia, the delicate aroma of coffee, the roar of mighty waterfalls – all this, like a magnet, attracts millions of tourists from the Old and New World in Brazil.

The most popular place is probably the former capital of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro (which translates as “January River”). It is a very unusual and contrasting city. To feel it, you must visit it and believe (and sometimes not believe) your eyes. The first thing foreigners notice a huge number of unusual flowers and trees growing right in the streets. The climate and natural conditions are fully conducive to this and help tourists to get aesthetic pleasure from the beautiful cityscapes. It is in the city where the world-famous Carnival takes place. It is held annually in February. This period is considered the peak of the tourist season. Everyone wants to come here and see the city bursting with color. In the vicinity of Rio de Janeiro you can also visit several interesting places, such as the residence of Emperor Pedro I and the Imperial Museum, which is located 60 kilometers from Rio. And the city of Diamantina, located nearby, was included in the list of Cultural Heritage of UNESCO.

In São Paulo, tourists usually visit the Pacaembo sports stadium. It is here most often played the world-famous soccer player Pele. This is a city with an insanely beautiful nature, it is here that created the amazing nature reserve “Butantan.”.

Brasilia – a unique city at an altitude of 1172 meters above sea level, the shape resembles … an airplane! It was built from almost nothing in just four years. At its center is the Square of the Three Powers. Also, one of the most important attractions of the city is the Aurora Palace, where the residence of the President of Brazil is located.

The city of Manaus is famous for the fact that here the multicolored Rio Negro and Solimoes rivers merge, not mixing because of the different density of water. Tourists coming to Manaus, with special interest and admiration walk through the territory of the Church of San Sebastian and admire the remarkable architecture, which has absorbed all the best of a mixture of several styles.

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Carnival lasts for five days. The dates vary each year because they depend on the Catholic Easter, which in turn depends on the lunar calendar and the Jewish Passover. Carnival in Brazil takes place from Friday to Tuesday and ends on the eve of Ash Wednesday, when Catholic Lent begins.

The holiday is usually in February or early March, but preparations can be seen with the naked eye a couple of weeks before the start. The earliest start date for the carnival is January 30, which won’t happen until 2285, and the latest end date for the celebration is March 10, but that will have to wait until 2038.

Carnival in Rio De Janeiro In Numbers

The most spectacular, the most famous, the largest in the world and the most popular among tourists is the carnival in Rio de Janeiro. The first carnival in Rio de Janeiro was held almost 200 years ago – back in 1723, and today it brings together over 6 million participants and spectators. To imagine the scale of the event, think about the numbers:

• 3,000 dancers participate in 5 parades at the Rio de Janeiro Sambodrome
• Some 17,000 police officers guard the peace of the celebrating city
• 106,000,0000 condoms distributed for free to those celebrating in 2018
• That same year, 6,800,000,000 liters of beer were drunk during the carnival!
• More than 32,000 public toilets take to the streets of the city during Carnival days

Rio De Janeiro Parade: Sambodrome

To get to one of the parades as part of the competition of the capital’s top samba schools is an unforgettable experience! Tickets cost anywhere from $40 to several hundred dollars, and the price depends on the sector, the prestige of the parade, and the comfort of the seat. Performances are watched standing, seated, in comfortable outdoor and indoor boxes.

The parade begins at 9 p.m. and lasts until morning. Each samba school’s performance lasts about 80 minutes and is strictly regulated. It is judged by more than 50 judges and 72,000 spectators at the Sambodrome applaud the dancers!

How to Get Involved

Another way to enjoy the parade in Rio de Janeiro is to march in front of tens of thousands of spectators as part of one of the city’s best dance schools. All you need to do is reserve a costume in advance. The costume price depends on its complexity and popularity of the school and can range from $200 to several thousand dollars. A nice moment: after the parade is over, the costume will be left to you!

However, don’t make the decision to participate in the parade lightly. After all, this is not only an entertainment event, but also a tough competition, so participants are required to iron discipline and strict adherence to the rules, and for being late or untidy costume you can be suspended from participating in the parade. It’s also worth noting that a few hours in a bulky synthetic outfit is an ordeal for a body unused to the Brazilian summer. But the experience of the carnival will last a lifetime!

Luxurious Balls

During the carnival there are closed-door parties, balls, each of which has its own charm and flavor. Do you want to feel like a real celebrity? Go to the Magic Ball at the Copacabana Palace Hotel! This sophisticated event requires a black tie dress code – a tuxedo for men and a floor dress for women. Tickets will cost you a pretty penny, but if you’re here, you’re definitely a VIP!

Want mad fun, a riot of colors, odious travesty divas and drag queens? Don’t miss the extraordinary and magical Gay Gala Ball costume party at the Scala Rio nightclub.

Street Parties Blocos

Parades and balls in Rio aren’t the whole carnival! Even if you can’t make it to the indoor events, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere for free at one of the street parties – blocos. They are scheduled and spontaneous once someone remembers they have a great stereo stashed away and draw anywhere from a few hundred to a few hundred thousand people!

Tips for Tourists

1) Clothes: if you’re not going to one of the balls, don’t dress up: choose light summer clothes for hot and humid weather – and you won’t make a mistake!

2) Money: Get cash in advance. ATMs may not work during carnival week. But don’t carry the complete amount of money with you.

3) Modesty is an ornament: do not wear expensive jewelry and do not carry large sums of money, keep an eye on your cell phone and camera. While everything is rattling and shining around, pickpockets are not sleeping.

4) Water: Drink lots of water and don’t let the hot Brazilian nights pass you by!

5) Logistics: The metro is your main carrier during Carnival days, and to avoid the queues, buy a card for a few days in advance.

Carnivals in Brazil: Where Else to Go for Fun

Rio de Janeiro is not the only city in Brazil that hosts a carnival on the eve of Lent.

• Salvador (Bahia State) – the biggest street parade in Brazil takes place here, in the capital of the most musical state of the country! About 2 million tourists come here every year!
• Olinda and Recife – the local carnival dances spectacular frevo dances with traditional umbrellas
• São Paulo – the business center of Brazil, like Rio, hosts a magnificent and spectacular samba school parade as part of the carnival
• Manaus – the most famous carnival in the Amazon attracts tourists with costume parades and unique traditions of the region

Be sensible and careful, and your stay in Brazil will be remembered only by positive feelings and emotions.

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