When is Carnival?
2009 Carnival starts on Saturday, February
21st and ends on Fat Tuesday, February 24th. For
other years click here.
Which Carnival is the best in Brazil?
Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, Olinda and Salvador all clamor for this title. The Carnival in Rio is definitely the biggest, most famous and most visited one not just in Brazil but in the whole world. Hence Rio is dubbed the Carnival Capital of the Globe.
Where should I stay in Rio?
Try to stay in South Rio (the Zona Sul), which is not just the most beautiful but also offers the best infrastructure and is the safest particularly for tourists. Ipanema and Leblon are the best, most up-market and priciest options. Copacabana and Botafogo are more down-market but still on the beach. Avoid Lapa and Santa Teresa as they are outright dangerous riddled with crime and frequent street assaults.
When should I book?
Book flights and accommodation at least 3 months in advance. Tickets as early as possible. The best tickets sell out early and prices increase with time.
Which events should I attend?
The highlight is the Samba Parade. Go to a few balls especially to the Gala Ball in the Scala. Join in as many street parties and band processions as you can both downtown (Centro) and in South Rio (the Zona Sul). Sample at least one samba school night.
Which are the best street parties?
The street band of Ipanema is the most famous and flamboyant one. The ones downtown (e.g. Cordão do Bola Preta) are the biggest ones.
Which are the best balls?
High society attends the Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace Hotel. The Costume Competition in Hotel Gloria is very interesting. For fun and dance nights go to the Gala and the Gay Costume balls in the Scala.
When and where can I buy my tickets?
You only need to buy your tickets well in advance for the Samba Parade and the Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace Hotel. See details for all events here.
What is a samba school?
It is an association of people of the same neighborhood to prepare for the Samba Parade and entertain the community with samba nights. They are not samba teaching institutions as their name suggests.
Where can I learn to samba?
Best to learn it just by watching others. Then have a go. You do not have to join a samba school. They do not offer courses. Just go to a samba night at a school.
How can I participate?
Join in the street parties and march with the bands. For the absolute knock-out experience parade yourself in costume in the Sambodromo.
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