Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025 – Full Schedule

Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025 promises to be one of the most unforgettable in history, bringing together the best of tradition, music and culture in a grand spectacle that attracts visitors from all over the world. With a combination of dazzling parades, lively street parties and exclusive parties, the event reaffirms its place as one of the largest popular celebrations on the planet. In 2025, the city will once again become the epicenter of joy, with a program that caters to all tastes, from revelers who love samba schools to those who prefer to enjoy street parties and shows by the most renowned artists.

Whether you want to experience the excitement of the parades at the Sambadrome, get lost in the crowds of the street parties or enjoy the parties in the luxurious VIP areas, Rio's Carnival offers unique and unforgettable experiences. This year, the festivities will take on new formats and special attractions, ensuring even more sparkle and energy. Get ready to dive into the full schedule of the biggest Carnival in the world, with unmissable tips for planning your participation in this spectacular event!

Samba School Parades: Three Nights of Spectacular Performance at the Sambadrome

What to expect from the parades?

The Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome will once again be the stage for one of the world's greatest cultural spectacles: the Special Group Samba School parades. In 2025, the event will take on a new format, with the parades taking place on three consecutive nights: Sunday, Monday and Tuesday (March 2-4). This change promises to provide even more space and visibility for each school to present their grand productions.

Interesting facts about Samba Schools

• The 2024 Carnival champion school, Beija-Flor de Nilópolis, will come with the theme “The Brazil that sings and enchants”, celebrating the country's rhythms and voices.
• Carnival 2025 marks the return of the traditional Unidos de Lucas school to the Special Group after more than 30 years.
• This year's floats promise to be the biggest ever seen, with impressive technological structures and state-of-the-art special effects.

Dates and times

Check out the parade schedule:

• Sunday, March 2: First six schools of the Special Group.
• Monday, March 3: Second night with six other schools.
• Tuesday, March 4th: Parade of champions, closing with a flourish.

Street Blocks: The Joy and Diversity of Rio's Carnival

What to expect from the blocks?

Street blocks are the soul of Rio's Carnival, bringing together millions of revelers in outdoor celebrations that combine music, dance and a lot of creativity. In 2025, more than 500 blocks will take to the streets of Rio de Janeiro, with programming that runs from February 1st to March 5th. There are options for all tastes, from traditional ones like “Cordão da Bola Preta” to themed blocks like “Sargento Pimenta”, which mixes Beatles with samba.

Interesting facts about street blocks

• “Cordão da Bola Preta” is the oldest bloco in Rio, founded in 1918, and attracts around a million people to the city center.
• Smaller groups, such as “Simpatia é Quase Amor”, are famous for their humorous lyrics and welcoming atmosphere.
• Some blocks have unusual themes, such as the “Virtual Block”, which celebrates the digital age with futuristic costumes.

Tips for taking advantage of blocks

To make the most of it, remember to arrive early, bring water and sunscreen, and choose light and comfortable clothing. Also, be aware of transportation and safety options to ensure a peaceful and fun experience.

Exclusive Boxes: Luxury and Comfort at the Sambadrome

What to expect from the boxes?

The Sambadrome VIP boxes are the perfect choice for those seeking a unique Carnival experience. With privileged views of the parades, high-quality services and exclusive show programming, they offer comfort and sophistication amidst the festivities. In 2025, the VIP boxes promise to exceed expectations with top-notch musical acts and excellent service.

Interesting facts about the boxes

• Camarote Nº1, one of the most famous, will have an expanded program this year, with shows by artists such as Vintage Culture and Xande de Pilares.
• The boxes offer an open bar and open food, with menus created by renowned chefs.
• In addition to the parades, many VIP areas host post-parade parties that continue until dawn.

How to secure your place?

Tickets for the VIP boxes are limited and tend to sell out quickly. Plan ahead and look into packages that include transportation and accommodation for a complete experience.

Technical Rehearsals: An Unmissable Warm-Up for the Parades

What are technical tests?

Samba school rehearsals are an incredible opportunity to experience the magic of the parades before the big day. Free and open to the public, they take place on the weekends leading up to Carnival, at the Sambadrome itself, and allow the schools to fine-tune the final details of their performances.

Interesting facts about technical tests

• The rehearsals do not include costumes or floats, but the energy and enthusiasm of the drummers and dancers are the same as in the official parade.
• It is common for celebrities and samba personalities to participate in rehearsals, attracting even more audiences.
• Many revelers use the technical rehearsals as a preview to decide which school to support during the parades.

Dates and times

Technical rehearsals begin in January 2025 and continue until the week before Carnival. Check the official schedule to make sure you don't miss your favorite school.

Types of Tickets for Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025

Rio de Janeiro Carnival offers several ticket options to meet the different profiles of spectators who wish to experience the parades at the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome. Below, we present the main types of tickets available for 2025:

1. Grandstands

The grandstands provide a wide, panoramic view of the parades and are a popular option among revelers. The sectors vary in location and price:

• Sectors 2, 3, 4, 5, 10 and 11: Tickets R$ 190 (R$ 95 half-price) per day.
• Sectors 6 and 8: Tickets R$ 230 (R$ 115 half-price) per day.
• Sector 7: Tickets R$ 200 (R$ 100 half-price) per day.

Sales begin on August 27, 2024, exclusively online. Each CPF can purchase up to four tickets, with only one being a half-price ticket.

2. Individual Chairs

Located in Sector 12, the individual chairs offer numbered seats, ensuring comfort and a good view of the parades. Tickets cost R$ 190 (R$ 95 half-price) per day.

3. Friezes

The boxes are located close to the track, offering a closer experience of the parades. Each box accommodates up to six people and prices vary according to the sector and the line.

4. Cabins

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, the VIP boxes offer premium services, such as an open bar, buffet and additional entertainment. Prices are higher and vary depending on the VIP box chosen.

5. Rio Carnival Passport

New for 2025, the Rio Carnival Passport guarantees access to the Sambadrome on the three days of official parades for R$ 450. Limited to one ticket per CPF, personal and non-transferable.

It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, due to high demand. Check the options that best suit your preferences and get ready to experience the magic of Rio Carnival!

Safety and Transportation Tips for Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025

Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival is a vibrant celebration that attracts millions of revelers from all over the world. To make the most of this festivities, it’s essential to be mindful of your personal safety and plan your travels around the city accordingly. Below, we’ve put together some essential guidelines to ensure a safe and stress-free experience during Carnival 2025.

1. Safety Tips

• Be Aware of Your Environment: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid excessive distractions, such as constant cell phone use, to reduce the risk of theft.
• Protect Your Belongings: Use fanny packs or small bags placed on the front of your body to store personal items, such as documents, money and cell phone. Avoid carrying valuables, such as jewelry and expensive watches.
• Avoid Isolated Locations: Choose to walk in busy, well-lit areas. Avoid dark alleys or uncrowded areas, especially at night.
• Hydrate and Protect Yourself from the Sun: Summer in Rio is intense. Drink water regularly, use sunscreen and wear light clothing to protect yourself from the heat.
• Plan Your Travels: Find out the times and routes of the blocks and parades you intend to attend. Plan how to get to and leave the events in advance.

2. Transportation Options

During Carnival, traffic in Rio de Janeiro undergoes significant changes due to closures and the large flow of people. Therefore, it is important to know the transport options available:

• Subway: The subway is an efficient and safe option for getting around the city during Carnival. In previous years, the service operated 24 hours a day during the festivities, making it easy to get to the main party spots. It is recommended to check the updated schedules and the stations closest to the events you intend to attend.
• Bus: Bus routes are also subject to changes due to closures. It is advisable to check the specific routes and schedules for the Carnival period in advance.
• Transfer Service: For those seeking comfort and safety, there are specialized transfer services that take revelers directly to the parade locations, such as the Sambadrome. These services usually include guides who accompany passengers, providing a more peaceful experience.
• Taxis and Transportation Apps: Licensed taxis and ride-hailing services are viable alternatives. However, due to high demand, fares may increase and wait times may increase. Plan in advance and, if possible, share rides with friends for greater safety.

By following these safety guidelines and planning your travels in advance, you will be able to fully enjoy the Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025 festivities with peace of mind and joy.