Attending the Rio Carnival is like receiving an energy boost which will last you the entire year.
For five days every year, the city of Rio de Janeiro just shuts down. Locals to travellers from around the world are all out on the streets to party. It is an experience which everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.
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Thinking of attending the Rio Carnival in 2019? It is held the first week of March, Here’s a brief look at the history of this event and an overview of some of the things you can do when you attend Carnival.
What is Carnival?
Carnival has changed a lot since its very first festival. The first festival, which was held sometime in the 15th century, was designed to give people the opportunity to celebrate and honour pagan gods. There was singing, dancing and feasting.
Singing, dancing, and feasting still occur during Carnival, but the entire focus of the event has shifted. Today, the event no longer focuses on celebrating pagan gods. Instead, it’s focus is on putting on “The Greatest Show on Earth”. The entire event is filled with dancers, street performers, massive parties, tons of celebrations and dazzling, elaborate costumes which will take your breath away.
What to Expect When Attending the Rio Carnival
People are often reluctant to attend the Rio Carnival because they think the only thing to do is party in the streets and drink lots of alcohol, but there is so much more to do during this massive event.
The biggest highlight of Rio Carnival and an absolute “must attend” event is the Rio Samba Parade. The Samba Parade is where dance schools from all over Brazil have the opportunity to show off their dance moves to the world. They do so in one of the most fun, exciting and electrifying ways possible – by having a massive party.
Each dance school spends an entire year planning for the Rio Samba Parade. They spend considerable time designing costumes, choreographing dances, gathering hometown crowds to cheer on the dancers and deciding on a theme for the event.
When the Rio Samba Parade occurs, dance schools will show off their dance moves. Huge hometown crowds, along with visitors from all over the world will cheer on the dancers as they take to the streets. The dancers are trying to impress the crowds, but most importantly they are trying to impress a panel of judges who will determine who will win the grand prize for the parade.
Other Things to Do During Carnival
Partying is huge during Carnival. It is estimated that there will be over 400 different themed street parties held throughout the five-day festival. Most of these street parties are open to the public and you are welcome to attend.
If you want a more formal event, there are several Rio Carnival Galas and Balls held throughout the city. These events are more formal. If you plan on attending be prepared to dress in your glitziest outfits and walk the red carpet!
Start planning now so you don’t miss out on attending Rio Carnival 2019. It is truly an experience which will allow you to create memories that will last a lifetime!
If you want to get great value, book a spot at Ace Airport Parking before you leave! We have a fantastic range
Photo credit: Paula Abrahão on Visualhunt.com
of great value Melbourne airport parking options for both undercover and outdoor parking, long-term or short term, using our convenient online booking form. We also offer valet parking for those that want to drop and go, as well as regular fast and free shuttle buses that will drop you at your terminal.
