With less than two weeks until the event Brazilians look forward to for the whole year, preparations are well underway for the country’s biggest party.
In Carnival 2017, carnivalgoers will have to wait a little longer to kick off the celebrations than last time around: 28 February. Most of the parties will take place from 25 (Friday) to 1 March (Ash Wednesday), depending on the city.
Rio’s Sambódromo – the planet’s most famous carnival arena – has its programme ready for the entire 5 days, and tickets are available for purchase on-line or via several agencies. There are plenty of options of how to enjoy the festival: from the grandstands, seats close to the action or even packages for those who have always dreamed of taking part in the procession itself, as well as VIP booths for those who want an extra special, close-up experience.
In Olinda, Pernambuco, one of Brazil’s most traditional carnival’s is also well underway in its preparations, with national superstars such as Jorge e Mateus, Wesley Safadão, DJ Alok and Gabriel Diniz set to perform.
Ouro Preto, in Minas Gerais, has one of the country’s most well-known and popular carnival parties, with diverse blocos (music trucks), and confirmed names such as Marcelo D2, Nego do Borel and Monobloco, who will provide entertainment in the city’s historic streets.
One of the biggest carnival destinations in the south of the country – Florianópolis – has its own carnival catwalk, like the one in Sapucaí, in Rio de Janeiro, but slightly smaller. In addition to the competition between six samba schools, there will be a host of other attractions, such as a prize ceremony for carnival music and the important decision of who is the year’s Carnival Queen.
Whatever your destination, make sure you get your trip to Brazil booked soon, so that you don’t miss out on the world’s biggest and best party!