Discover the Rio Samba Parade 2027

The samba parade held to celebrate the Rio Carnival is undoubtedly the biggest attraction on earth, with visitors from around the world flocking to Rio for a week of dancing, singing and partying. To vibe with the rhythm of the samba, the only place to be is the Rio Carnival. The allure of experiencing the Carnival once may well turn into an annual tradition for any tourist.

The Carnival is the ideal moment to immerse yourself in vibrant Brazilian culture. Since 1984, the parade has taken place at the Sambadrome, where twelve top samba schools vie for the championship title annually.

Choreography at its Best

Each samba school presents a theme portrayed by musicians, samba dancers, and extravagantly decorated floats. The samba schools prepare extensively, involving thousands from their communities. The Carnival Director, or Carnavalesco, manages everything from thematic concepts to costumes and decorations.

Planning begins immediately after each year's Carnival concludes, with musicians, architects, fashion designers, and choreographers working year-round. The goal: to deliver a captivating 70 to 80-minute showcase of samba energy.

Carnival's Top Samba Schools

The orchestrated samba parade takes place over three nights — Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday — featuring the 12 top samba schools, including Beija-Flor, Mocidade, and Mangueira. Performance points affect the school's ranking in the next year’s competition.

Alas or Wings – Ground Level Entertainment

Each samba school is divided into segments called 'alas' or wings, with 100 or more participants in uniform. These groups often create unique dances practiced for months. The dance contributes to the overall score, so dancers remain energetic, cheerful, and sing their school's anthem all parade long.

Each wing plays a role tied to the school's theme, and floats, interspersed between them, feature special effects. These eye-catching elements, like fire-breathing dragons or mechanical eagles, captivate both judges and spectators.

Floats, sometimes motorized, carry groups of samba dancers and special guests — often celebrities lending their support. Post-costume expenses are significant, but occasionally schools absorb the cost. Securing a spot on a float is a high honor in any samba school.

The Flag Bearer and her Escort

Leading the parade is the duo of Porta Bandeira and Mestre Sala, with the lady presenting the flag and her escort dancing elegantly. Schools may have multiple flag bearers, but the first remains crucial for scoring.

Baianas - Whirling Ladies

Baianas, venerable older women, embody the samba schools' heritage and African roots. Their enthralling performances in Bahia costumes earn widespread acclamation. Only those who have long served the samba schools are honored with this role.

Their presentation is a token of gratitude from younger members for decades of dedication to Carnival preparation.

Queen of the Drummers and the Bateria

At the heart of the samba parade is the bateria, the vibrant drum ensemble energizing dancers.