When February arrives the whole country knows it's time to face on of (if not) the biggest cultural event. For centuries, huge groups come together annually to represent themselves on the 500 metre large catwalk, showing what their fantasies and a lot of samba!
Although it may be a bit weird to think that thousands of people come together to celebrate the beginning of Lent in such a way, it's a six-day party with non-stop music and outdoor parties in which they wear costumes.
As you could see in the photos above, women generally has a very small percentage of the body covered. That is because they best represent the theme based on their parade, knows as 'bloco'. All of these 'blocos' choose the theme or culture they want to represent by constructing attractive percussion and entourage of revelers. While some represent different continents, others chooses to represent historical facts such as tribal indians that were the first inhabitants of the country.
Even though this is the most traditional way to celebrate Carnival and also represent samba at it's best, there's a lot of other ways to celebrate this event around the country. Going norther or southern, the music style varies as there is local singers and bands performing in huge Trio Eletricos. Along with it, there is a massive number of people behind it enjoying as much as themselves. It is a sort of on-the-streets concert and it's very popular.
In these Trios the most common music style played is 'Axé'. It is a ritual greeting meaning 'good vibration', and that is what they have for leftovers! Great well-known bands and singers are: Claudia Leitte, Ivete Sangalo, Daniela Mercury, Asa de Águia, Chiclete com Banana and many more!
Here's a short video from last year's Carnival in Rio!
The City of Samba from
Jarbas Agnelli on
Vimeo.
