The year 2025 has already begun and Brazilians are already dancing to a different rhythm. Carnival is here to transform streets, squares and sambadromes into stages of celebration, joy and Brazilian diversity. It is the time of year when costumes shine and crowds come together to celebrate life to the sound of marchinhas, frevo and samba. On February 28 and March 1, 2, 3 and 4, the contagious energy of this party will attract millions of people from all over the world to witness one of the greatest shows on the planet.
From north to south, each city imprints its unique identity on Carnival. Whether in the grand parades of samba schools or in the streets that gather crowds, the spirit of Carnival is a true manifestation of the Brazilian soul. For those who wish to immerse themselves in this unforgettable experience, we have selected five destinations that offer a variety of styles and traditions: Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Recife, Olinda and Belo Horizonte. Get ready to discover what makes each of these cities special!
Rio de Janeiro: The Carnival of Dreams
The Marvelous City is the epicentre of one of the most iconic carnivals in Brazil. The Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome is the official stage for the annual parade of Rio's samba schools. With large floats, luxurious costumes, choreography and lots of music, the schools perform in Sapucaí, enchanting the public and the judges with the richness of this spectacle.
And it doesn't end there. Rio's street carnival is recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as the largest in the world and attracts around two million people every day to follow hundreds of street parties that take over the city in an explosion of music and colours. Among the most famous are Cordão da Bola Preta, Simpatia é Quase Amor, Banda de Ipanema, Bloco da Favorita and Bloco da Preta.
Whether you prefer the glamour of Sapucaí or the informality of the streets, the Rio Carnival is an irresistible invitation to live unforgettable moments in the Marvelous City.
Salvador: 6 days of many electric trios
Imagine dancing behind an electric trio, feeling the rhythm of the drums and letting yourself be carried away by the joy of people from all corners of the world. Get ready, because the Salvador Carnival offers six days of revelry, animation, musical diversity and contagious joy. To give you an idea of the magnitude of this party, it has been listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the largest street carnival in the world, bringing together 16.5 million people.
During the festival days, the city is transformed into a huge open-air stage, with street blocks, electric trios and VIP areas celebrating to the sound of axé, samba, pagode and many other musical rhythms. The programme is divided into several circuits, the main ones being Barra-Ondina, Campo Grande and Pelourinho. It is along these circuits that electric trios of renowned Brazilian Carnival artists such as Gilberto Gil, Ivete Sangalo, Bell Marques, Durval Lelys and Daniela Mercury parade, attracting crowds through the streets of Salvador.
Salvador is synonymous with axé, warmth and an experience that connects people from all over the world to the rhythm of Bahia. The number one tip for first-time visitors is: choose how you want to experience Carnival. Whether in the heart of the party, following the street parties or in one of the VIP areas that offer comfort, gastronomy and a privileged view of the festivities, fun is guaranteed!
Recife: Frevo, tradition and the largest carnival block in the world
Recife Carnival is a party that you have to experience at least once in your life. Imagine streets full of colors, music and smiles everywhere. The party starts in the early hours of Saturday morning with the famous Galo da Madrugada, the largest carnival group in the world. It is impossible not to get excited by the frevo that invades the streets, with its colorful umbrellas and the contagious rhythm of the orchestras that make everyone move.
At Marco Zero you will find great concerts and an incredible vibe, while in the squares scattered around the city there are performances of maracatu, ciranda and even lyrical blocks full of poetry and tradition. It is a mix of sounds and cultures that only Recife can offer.
What a pleasure it is to enjoy Carnival in Recife! In the midst of all the festivities, you will feel the essence of the people of Pernambuco: warm, welcoming and full of joy. Why not give yourself the chance to live this unique experience?
Olinda: Street party with giant puppets
Adjacent to Recife, the city of Olinda enchants with its Carnival, considered a Cultural Heritage of Brazil. It is a magical and vibrant experience amidst the ups and downs of the city's historic hills. Accompanied by frevo orchestras that play non-stop or other rhythms such as maracatu, the streets are filled with tradition, creativity in costumes and a contagious energy that makes everyone dance.
The iconic giant dolls are the postcard of the celebration. It is impossible not to be enchanted by the colorful and cartoonish figures dancing in the middle of the crowd. Olinda is more than a carnival: it is an unforgettable cultural immersion. Go out on the street, mingle with others and feel first-hand the unique energy that only this wonderful celebration can offer.
Belo Horizonte: the new favorite for carnival
Belo Horizonte has been gaining ground as one of Brazil's top Carnival destinations. With streets to suit all tastes, from the most traditional to the most creative, the city becomes a melting pot of joy and fun. Whether to the sound of marchinhas or modern rhythms like axé and samba-reggae, BH knows how to throw a party.
The charm of this Carnival lies in its diversity. You can enjoy the lively streets of the city or look for something more peaceful, in neighbourhoods where the parties are calmer and more relaxed. Among the most famous streets are Então, Brilha!, Juventude Bronzeada, Funk You, Havayanas Usadas, Quando Come Se Lambuza and Os Baianeiros, which draw crowds with their colours, energy and animation. For those looking for quality music, stages spread across the city host incredible artists, ensuring that the music never stops.
A tip: If you are in Minas Gerais at this time of year, it is also worth exploring other carnival towns, such as Diamantina and Ouro Preto. In Diamantina, the carnival comes alive with bands playing in the historic squares, while the hills fill with revelers and merriment. In Ouro Preto, the vibe is younger, with lively neighborhoods that make the historic streets come alive. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, but with the same Minas Gerais essence of hospitality and celebration from the heart!
Are you ready? Now all you have to do is choose your destination, prepare your costume and embark on this unforgettable adventure!
Source: Embratur/ Visit Brasil.