Carnaval

The carnival is a celebration that is seen throughout South America, with festivities somewhat unique from country to country. For four days, starting on a Saturday and ending on Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras), you will have the most amazing time imaginable. As an example, in Rio de Janeiro, the carnival occurs at the peak time during the summer months. Literally thousands of people come from around the globe to watch and participate in the festivities.

Although the origin of this carnival is unknown, most experts agree the event started as some type of pagan celebration somewhere in Greece or Rome. Carnival balls were introduced from Italy in the late 19th century although they were at their most popular from 1930 through the 1950s. In fact, two of the most famous of these balls include those held at the Municipal Theater and the Copacabana Palace.

In addition, during the 1930s the Samba Parade began where it eventually settled at the Sambodrome in the downtown area, in 1984. The Samba is of West African heritage that consists of rhythmic beating of the drums that get your feet moving and soon, dancing. All along the parade route will be Escola dancers displaying their talent to the beat of the Samba drums.

Although the Samba Parade is a major part of the carnival festivities, there are many other things going on. For instance, you can get involved with Banda de Ipanema, which was founded in 1964 and draws in more than 15,000 people. When celebrating the carnival in Brazil, the Portuguese tradition is called Entrudo, which involves throwing flower and mud at unsuspecting spectators. The streets are flooded with all types of colorful parades, some that compete against each other.

Remember, different countries and cities have their own unique style of the carnival. Take Salvador for example, there the music is provided by groups known as Trios Electricos. The sound and volume is so intense that it can almost be deafening. Then in Recife, the music style is called Frevo, and in Bahia, you hear music that sounds more like religious tunes called Afoxe.

If you plan to go watch the proceedings of the Carnival while in South America, we highly recommend that you dress in comfortable clothing and most importantly, blend in. Remember, if you look like a tourist, you will have flour and mud thrown on you. Therefore, the more casual you can dress the better. Additionally, because the crowds are so large, there are unfortunately some pickpockets so keep anything of value at home or at the hotel.