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Carnival is the most popular holiday in Brazil and the only celebration of its size in the world. The event takes almost a year to organize and attracts tourists from all corners of the world.
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is the statement of the pleasure of a diverse and happy people! It is a democratic celebration where revelers of all social classes, races, and ages get together for fun. It is an event that celebrates our culture and unites thousands of people under the sound of samba.
During five days of revelry, the city exudes an enviable joy. Cariocas forget about their problems and obligations and are captivated by the gigantic spectacle of dance and magic. Crowds take to the streets to celebrate life, in an atmosphere of unity and happiness.
Parades in the Sambodromo on Avenida Marquês de Sapucaí symbolize the carioca carnival. Renowned worldwide, the event is a feast of unparalleled beauty. The schools go all out to impress the crowds. Samba music, bright colors, splendid costumes, floats and beautiful women are the main ingredients of this great competition.
Rio’s street carnival isn’t new, but in the last decade it grew into a well organized event and gained enormous popularity. This year 500 blocos paraded throughout the city and more than three million people danced and followed the sound of music. The streets were packed with revelers enjoying the day and singing the carnival songs.
All this production, organization, and programming requires almost a year’s worth of work. Carnival mobilizes more than 500.000 workers, involves an enormous supply chain, and generates significant income for the city. The tourism sector begins to sell travel packages in August. The event also increases sales in the textile, food, and hotel industries; carnival is one of the peak periods of the year and accounts for 20% of total sales.
In 2010, Rio received 800.000 visitors during carnival which represents a R$ 950 million industry for the city. Almost 100% of spectators at the Sambodromo this year stated that it exceeded their expectations and 93% said they intend to return to the city. Visitors also were positive about the city’s nightlife and public safety, rating it 8 or higher.
During carnival, the Cidade Maravilhosa celebrates and invites everybody to join this well organized and diverse party to celebrate the joy of being alive. Samba schools dazzle with their greatness, while the street carnival gains momentum and attracts more and more revelers. The bars, samba concerts, blocos, Sambodromo and City of Samba all come together to provide an unforgettable celebration —the largest party the world has ever seen.
Brazilian Carnaval – Rio de Janeiro