Before they enter the runway, samba schools gather at the Concentration. This is an area outside the Sambodrome, in the open air. Two schools gather at any given time, one on the Correios side, and the other in front of a building known as Balança mas não Cai.

Once you get to the right concentration side, it's time to find your wing. Wearing the same costume creates a sort of an instant feeling of camaraderie. Your new friends will be happy to to help with the costume, and go through the theme one last time. Street vendors offer all sorts of drinks, but try to resist the caipirinhas. One too many could jeopardize your performance!

Floatees go up to their positions, sometimes helped by cranes! Don't be shy, and ask that baiana to pose for a photo. Look around and you will see people doing the samba steps, singing, drinking, some chain smoking... The anticipation is big, but in a few moments each one of them will be a star in the greatest show on earth. Join us now on the backstage fun. We will not be surprised to see you marching with a samba school one of these days...