They may try to organize it, glamorize it, televise it, even industrialize it, but Carnival is something that comes deep from the fun-loving Carioca soul. It does not depend on any authority or sponsor to happen. Carnival in the streets is a living proof of this love. It's free, spontaneous, and everybody's welcome to participate!

Each neighborhood in Rio has its favorite Bandas (bun-dush) or Blocos (blo-cush). Both consist of an orchestra marching along a pre-determined route, followed by hordes of enthusiastic samba dancers. They may come dressed in costumes, bathing suits, plain clothes, special T-shirts, or even in drag.

About Bandas and Blocos

The difference between a banda and a bloco is that in a banda the orchestra plays well-known Carnival hits, the marchinhas. These are songs that everybody can sing along, and some have been around since the Carmen Miranda days. Cordao da Bola Preta is a reference, around since 1918. Banda de Ipanema is the most traditional South Side banda in Rio.

In a bloco there is a special theme song that they choose every year. There may be meetings where songs are presented, just like in a Samba School. These rehearsals create a sort of camaraderie and, of course, a great excuse to party! Monobloco is the largest bloco today with Simpatia coming a close second..

Now the similarities: People first gather at some well known spot, such as a square or neighborhood bar. After a couple or more hours of concentration, the band starts marching its way down the streets. Or not. Concentra Mas Nao Sai never leaves its concentration...

Do not miss this delicious warm-up. At Banda de Ipanema there's the show performed by drag queens and children, stopping cars and buses trying in vain to make their way through the crowds. Drivers caught in a Banda gridlock have nothing to do but relax and enjoy the moment.

Street Carnival Etiquette

The first thing to keep in mind is that, whenever a crowd gathers in a big city, pickpockets may try to take advantage of the situation. This does not mean you have to be paranoid, but avoid wearing your diamond-studded watch, and do not keep a stack of $100 bills sticking out of your back pocket (duuuh!).

Do take some change for drinks - there will be plenty of vendors riding along with coolers on wheels. Just don't stay too close to them, or you could be run over when they start to move again. If you are wearing sensible shoes fine. In flip-flops? Look for shelter between the cars parked along Av. Vieira Souto if you sense your toes an in serious danger.

Use your good sense. When the band starts marching, stay a little ahead of the bulk of the crowd, or you will get stuck in the human mass. Marching right in front of floats or cars is not a good idea either. This is where the loudspeakers are. And stay close to the band in the back only if you have earplugs or you will go deaf...

Seniors and children of all ages participate at Street Carnival, so this is the ideal time for the whole family to have a good time together! Many South-Side bands go out in the afternoon. The gathering usually starts around 4 p.m., making this the quintessential aprés-beach experience. Most Bandas also have official T-shirts for sale on the spot for about $10, to help with the costs. They make great souvenirs, as they are sold only during Carnival days.

Now that you already know all you need about Street Carnival, learn about the Bandas and Blocos you Cannot Miss and find your way around with our clickable map of Street Festivities