Get into the Carnival spirit in Rio

GET INTO THE CARNIVAL SPIRIT IN RIO

Brazil is internationally recognised as the land of Carnival, a period when samba and bean stews take over the streets, and television programmes showcase the excitement of the season. Samba, which originated in the streets of Rio de Janeiro through the self-expression of Brazilian slaves, was known as a circle dance accompanied by drumming. It quickly became popular throughout the country. One of the reasons? The samba schools. The pioneer was the Deixa Falar school, which emerged at the end of the 1920s and was later transformed into Estácio de Sá. This was the milestone that triggered a cultural explosion that gave rise to hundreds of schools and brought the sambadrome to life.

As well as the spirit of joy that these samba schools bring with them, they also foster intense competition. Thousands of people parade through the sambadrome, shared by 12 samba schools, and each participant has a specific role in the parade. There are floats, exuberant costumes, the infectious sound of drums, lots of colour and rhythm. ... These are the hallmarks of Rio Carnival's main attraction.

Various criteria are used to decide the winner, from the drums to the samba, the costumes, the props or the harmony, so the performances expected at the parade are always high quality. In 2023, the winning school was Imperatriz Leopoldinense. Who will be this year's winner?

In addition to the festivities, Brazilian cuisine, renowned for its authentic flavours, is also a feature. And during Carnival it's practically impossible not to be tempted by the famous feijoada, a dish that just oozes tradition. Try the feijoada to the sound of a samba show at La Finestra Restaurant, in the PortoBay Rio de Janeiro hotel.

Carnival is a unique time of year, when everyone expresses their joy to the sound of a multitude of carnival rhythms!! For example, there are the Blocos de Rua, which promote semi-organised festive events through the city streets with parades, music and lots of dancing. They are known for attracting a diverse range of participants, from locals to tourists, and usually have a specific theme, with each person dressing up in the appropriate costume. Their popularity is growing, as they are generally free and open to the public. Long live originality! The music played at these events are often original compositions created for the occasion or adaptations of popular hits.

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere, you can also take part in the private parties to be found all over the city. All you have to do is choose your best costume and dance to the rhythm of the music that vibrates all night long. Let's samba!

Don't forget to include some snorkelling and coconut water in your itinerary, as Rio de Janeiro's beaches are also shaking to the beat of the samba. And, of course, don't forget the best drink of all - the caipirinha.

Come and experience the euphoria of Carnival at the PortoBay Rio de Janeiro hotel !!