As one of the biggest, boldest, and brightest events in the Brazilian calendar, the Rio de Janeiro Carnival is not to be missed. Although the 2020 carnival has just ended, tickets are now becoming available for the 2021 event. Taking place on February 21st and ending on February 26th, the week-long carnival is an impressive Brazilian tradition. The explosion of rhythm and culture is known as the biggest party in the world and it is unlike anything you have ever seen before. 

History 

Taking place on the Friday before Ash Wednesday, the Rio de Janeiro carnival was once known as a food festival. Being the last time to eat abundantly before 40 days of Lent, locals have been celebrating this for centuries. They claim that the word “Carnaval” was taken from the Latin expression “carne vale” which translates literally to “farewell to the meat.” 

The carnival has a vast history that has influences from all over the world. Ancient Greeks often celebrated homage to Dionysus, the god of wine. These festivities would also include a large abundance of food and drink. Even the Romans had a tradition of drinking all day in reverence to their gods Bacchus and Saturnalia. 

Rooted in pagan traditions along with Catholicism, the Rio Carnival comes from a culture clash between the Portuguese settlers and the indigenous people. In the 18th century, the settlers brought the European tradition of the carnival, otherwise known as entrudo. Combined with the local love for music and dance, the first Rio Carnival ball took place in 1840. 

Location

Located on a huge seaside side in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro has been the host of the carnival for many years. Known all over the world, the Rio de Janeiro carnival is famous for its vibrant colors, parade floats, flamboyant costumes, and musical samba dancers. As the largest festival in the world, the carnival is taken very seriously by locals. Sambadrome is an area that has been purposefully built for the carnival. The country has a vast array of samba competitions between rival schools, all of which take place here. Rio de Janeiro is full of rich culture and tradition. It has even been said to have the “bluest” sky in the whole world. 

Main Events

All we can say is: samba, samba, samba. All main parades include samba dancing, with the main Champions Parade typically being the finale at the end of the week. Competitions are held throughout the year and the six best schools get to take part in this finale - only the best of the best for the viewers. Known as the most luxurious occasion in the carnival, the Magic Ball is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Tickets are very hard to come by, but if possible, this is definitely one to add to the bucket list. 

Taking Part 

You have to be an early bird to catch this worm. Both attendees and performers start preparing up to a year in advance to get ready for the wild celebration. Joining a samba school is an incredible way to ensure your attendance, and also your moment to shine. Most schools don’t even require any previous experience, just the willingness to purchase your flamboyant costume online. 

Colors 

Speaking of flamboyant costumes… There is no wonder that this festival is famous all over the world. The extreme and vibrant colors could be spotted from miles away. Not only are these colors an exuberantly creative display of expression of those participating, it is also deeply meaningful. Each favela (or neighborhood) in Brazil is represented through each school. Defined by their costumes, dances, and lifestyles, these favela hold unique cultural traditions. Not only are these colors symbolic of the representation of individual communities, but as they come together they represent a cultural tapestry of Brazil. 

2020 Carnival 

As usual, the 2020 carnival lit up the streets of Brazil. The celebratory dances, parades, costumes, and parties did not disappoint as the world country came together to celebrate. Let Acanela make your dream become a reality and book your trip for the 2021 carnival now. 

Post written by Brooklyn Cathers