Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Amidst the pulsating rhythms of samba and the glittering spectacle of sequins, Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival parades have dazzled spectators since it officially kicked off on Friday, as thousands of performers took to the streets in a vibrant display of Brazilian culture.
With 12 samba schools vying for the prestigious title of Carnival champions, the city’s famed parades have showcased whimsical floats, thunderous drum sections, and elaborate costumes that left onlookers in awe.
“For us, entering the parade venue gives me goosebumps every time,” exclaimed Debora Moraes de Souza, a dedicated participant from the Porto da Pedra samba school. “You get to the end and you say: ‘Oh, it’s over already? I want more!’ Everyone’s jumping, everyone’s happy.”
While Carnival is renowned for its all-night revelry, the parades also serve as a platform for social commentary and political expression. Rooted in Rio’s impoverished favela neighborhoods, each samba school’s performance tells a story, often addressing pressing issues such as politics, social inequality, and environmental conservation.
This year’s parades include tributes to Afro-Brazilian heroes and Indigenous communities, shining a spotlight on the plight of the Yanomami people affected by illegal gold mining in the Amazon.
“We’re here to show everyone what’s happening in the Amazon,” explained dancer Kevin Rodriguis of the Salgueiro samba school. “The Yanomami are in crisis; there’s lots of deforestation, people and animals are dying, trees are being burned.”
Behind the glitz and glamour of the parades lies months of meticulous preparation by the samba schools. With over 3,000 performers and elaborate floats to coordinate, pulling off a successful parade is no small feat.
While the political tone of the parades has shifted over the years, Carnival remains a celebration deeply rooted in Brazilian culture. Originating from the descendants of African slaves, samba has become a symbol of national identity and unity.
Today, Rio Carnival is not only a cultural phenomenon but also a significant economic driver for the city, generating billions of reais in revenue each year.
As the Carnival festivities for 2024 draw to a close, Rio de Janeiro once again proves why it remains the ultimate destination for lovers of music, dance, and celebration.
