How does Carnaval in Rio work?
The Carnival of 2024 will take place between February 10th and 13th, but preparations have begun as soon as the last Carnival ended. The celebration starts spreading throughout the city in the so-called ‘blocos de rua’ (street parties) weeks before, but the grand spectacle unfolds on Carnival Sunday and Monday at the Sambadrome, located on Avenida Marquês de Sapucaí, in the city center.
Samba schools from all over the city spend the year preparing their samba plots to parade on the avenue. The plots cover a wide range of themes, often paying homage to a living or historical personality or addressing historical, cultural, and social issues. If you are interested in learning about other cultures and appreciating sophistication, the samba school plots can be a source of great cultural enrichment. For example, Mangueira samba school will pay tribute to the career of Alcione, one of the country’s most notable samba singers.
The major schools compete against each other for the prize. Each school has 75 minutes to complete its parade, which is divided into groups or wings with matching costumes. To be the champion, the school needs to execute its parade with as few errors as possible, judged in categories such as plot, evolution, floats, costumes, etc.
How to Watch the Parade – VIP Boxes
If you are planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro during Carnival, it is important to book in advance. The demand for accommodation and dining is high, and the best options can quickly sell out. The Sambadrome expects to reach 100% occupancy for the year 2024, anticipating an audience of 100,000 people.
For those seeking a first-class experience during the Rio de Janeiro Carnival, the VIP boxes are the ideal choice. They offer a differentiated view of the parades, unlimited food and drinks, and a luxurious and exclusive atmosphere, all while sharing the space with celebrities and important personalities from the city.
There are many different types of VIP boxes available, with prices varying according to location, amenities, and exclusivity. The best ones are located in front of the parade route, providing a privileged view. They also offer access to VIP areas such as lounges and bars.
The top packages include the customization of the VIP box for private groups. This may involve exclusive decorations, dedicated concierge services, and personalized experiences to create a more intimate and exclusive environment. Among the most exclusive VIP boxes are Arpoador, Mar, Folia Tropical, and the Carioca Lounge VIP Box. If you can’t make it during the Carnival season, don’t worry—there are some samba schools that offer more exclusive experiences in private parties, with renowned musicians, thematic decorations, and controlled environments in private events.
