Brazil celebrates carnival every year with much grandeur. Famed as the City of Carnival, Rio De Janeiro hosts one of the world's most colorful parties, with music and dance filling the Rio streets for five long days. Brazilian popular culture is reflected in all elements of Carnival (or Carnaval in Portuguese). Organized each year before Lent, the Carnival commences the Friday before Ash Wednesday. The Rio Carnival 2020 is set to take place from 21st February, Friday to 26th February, Wednesday.

There is a much to do during the Rio Carnival, from street parties, parades, balls, to free concerts. Some of the flashiest costumes are on display during the five-day long festivities. The major highlight of the Rio Carnival is the Samba Parade. The city’s 12 best samba schools put their artistic excellence on display. A number of glamorous balls (ranging from formal to costumed) with dancing and live music are organized in high-end hotels and theaters. Rio De Janeiro also hosts more than 500 street parties across different neighborhoods with thousands of merrymakers. Visitors must be prepared to indulge in their share of Caipirinhas, Samba, and Brazilian funk!

Friday, February 21st

1pm: Opening Ceremony - The King of Carnival (King Momo) is crowned by the city mayor and receives the city keys

9pm: Preliminary Schools' Parades in Sambodromo

Saturday, February 22nd

9.30am: Street Band Cordão do Bola Preta (Downtown)

4pm: Ipanema's Band, meeting point at General Osório square, Ipanema

8pm: Street Bands' Contest at Av. Rio Branco, Centro

9pm: Preliminary Schools' Parades in Sambodromo

11pm: Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace Hotel

Sunday, February 23rd

9pm: Main Schools' Parade in Sambodromo

Monday, February 24th

9pm: Main Schools' Parade in Sambodromo

Tuesday, February 25th

4pm: Ipanema's Band (last Carnival presentation)

9pm: Children's Samba Schools Parades

11pm: Gay Ball at Scala Rio

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Visit Rio de Janeiro (RIO) for its marvelous mountains, white-sand beaches, rainforests and glitzy nightlife. Enjoy watching samba dancers gyrating to groovy music at the carnivals or visit the famous statue of Christ the Redeemer. Stroll down the scenic beaches of Copacabana or Ipanema with your sweetheart or have a drink with friends at bars & pubs spread around this majestic destination.

Top things to do in Rio de Janeiro

Check out Brazil’s glorious history from colonial to imperial times at the Museu Historico Nacional.

Where to Dine in Rio de Janeiro

Relish meat, exotic wines and swift service at Porcao Rio’s.