The Rio Carnival will take place from February 5, 2027 to February 13, 2027.
The Rio Carnival is celebrated in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The Rio Carnival is one of the world’s most famous and vibrant cultural events, held annually in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is a lively, extravagant festival known for its colorful parades, rhythmic samba music, and joyous atmosphere. The carnival typically takes place in February or March, just before the Christian season of Lent, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe. The streets of Rio come alive with samba schools parading in elaborate costumes and floats, competing for the title of champion in dazzling displays of choreography, music, and creativity.
The origins of the Rio Carnival can be traced back to the 17th century, when Portuguese settlers introduced the tradition of “Entrudo,” a pre-Lenten festivity that involved playful water fights and street celebrations. Over the centuries, the event evolved, blending European customs with African and indigenous cultural elements. The introduction of samba music, which has roots in Afro-Brazilian traditions, became central to the carnival’s identity. This fusion of influences has created a unique festival that not only celebrates Brazilian culture but also symbolizes the country’s diverse heritage.
Beyond its entertainment value, the Rio Carnival holds deep cultural and symbolic significance. It represents a time of freedom, joy, and communal celebration before the more solemn period of Lent. During the carnival, people from all walks of life come together to celebrate, shedding social hierarchies and embracing the festive spirit. For many Brazilians, the carnival is a symbol of national pride and cultural expression, showcasing the creativity, passion, and history of the nation through music, dance, and art.
At Rio’s Carnival, you can expect an explosion of color, music, and energy unlike any other festival in the world. The main highlight is the extravagant parades featuring samba schools, each with their own theme, elaborate costumes, and intricately designed floats. These parades take place in the Sambadrome, a purpose-built stadium where samba schools compete for the title of champion.
Expect to be swept away by the pulsating rhythm of samba music, as thousands of dancers and musicians take to the streets and the Sambadrome, showcasing their talent and passion for this iconic Brazilian dance. The atmosphere is electric, with crowds cheering on their favorite samba schools and participating in the festivities with dancing, singing, and revelry.
Beyond the parades, Rio’s Carnival offers a plethora of activities and events throughout the city. From street parties known as “blocos” to live music performances, cultural exhibitions, and traditional food stalls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this vibrant celebration. Just be prepared for crowds, as millions of locals and tourists flock to Rio de Janeiro to experience the magic of Carnival firsthand.
Elaborate parades featuring samba schools competing with themed floats, vibrant costumes, and energetic dance routines.
Colorful street parties where people gather to dance, sing, and celebrate with live music, often featuring traditional Brazilian rhythms like samba, bossa nova, and frevo.
Fancy dress events held in clubs and venues across the city, where attendees wear elaborate costumes and enjoy live music, DJ sets, and performances.
Spontaneous gatherings of revelers in various neighborhoods, with music, dancing, and street vendors selling food and drinks.
Art shows, exhibitions, and cultural events showcasing Brazilian arts, crafts, and traditions, providing insights into the country's rich cultural heritage.
Street stalls offering Brazilian delicacies and street food favorites, including feijoada (a hearly bean stew), coxinhas (deep-fried snacks), and pastéis (savory pastries).
Date: February 5, 2027
Location: Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Time: 8:50 PM – Till
The Série Ouro opens Rio Carnival at the Sambadrome, with access-division samba schools putting on spectacular performances in their bid to earn promotion to the elite Grupo Especial.
Date: February 6, 2027
Location: Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Time: 8:50 PM – Till
The second night of the Série Ouro sees the remaining access-division samba schools take to the Sambadrome in a high-energy competition for a coveted spot in next year's Grupo Especial.
Date: February 7, 2027
Location: Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Time: 9:00 PM – Till
The pinnacle of Rio Carnival begins, with four of the city's top-tier samba schools delivering world-class performances of elaborate floats, stunning costumes, and pulsating samba in front of a packed Sambadrome.
Date: February 8, 2027
Location: Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Time: 9:00 PM – Till
Four more elite samba schools take to the Sambadrome on the second night of the Grupo Especial, each delivering a breathtaking parade of floats, costumes, and samba in the race for Carnival champion.
Date: February 9, 2027
Location: Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Time: 9:00 PM – Till
The final night of the Grupo Especial closes the main competition, with the last four elite samba schools giving everything on the Sambadrome runway before the results are announced the following day.
Date: February 13, 2027
Location: Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Time: 10:00 PM – Till
The grand finale of Rio Carnival, the Champions Parade brings the top Grupo Especial samba schools back to the Sambadrome for one last celebratory performance, giving fans a final chance to witness the magic of the world's greatest carnival.
Note: Changes to the schedule are beyond our control, so please check for updates before finalizing travel plans.
Rio de Janeiro is easy to reach whether you’re coming from elsewhere in Brazil, across South America, or internationally.
Ready to lock in your flights? Use the search tool above to compare fares and find the best deal for your Carnaval trip.
The best areas to stay for Rio Carnaval are Lapa and Santa Teresa — Lapa sits closest to the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí where the samba school parades take place, and both neighbourhoods are the heartbeat of Rio’s street blocos, live samba, and non-stop Carnival energy throughout the week.
Use the above map to find and book stays near the Carnival parade route!
Getting around Rio during Carnival is easiest if you stay near the parade route, Sambadrome, or the main street party areas.
Soak up the views from Christ the Redeemer or Sugarloaf Mountain, then unwind on Copacabana and Ipanema Beach where music, sun, and people-watching set the tone. Dive into culture in Santa Teresa for art and hillside charm, or explore the energy of Lapa with its arches, street parties, and nonstop samba. When night falls, the city pulses with rhythm, dance, and Carnival magic around every corner.
We’ve gathered some of our most useful Carnival travel blogs to help you plan for Rio Carnival and other global festivals:
