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Background: Carnival Saturday is part of the annual Carnival celebration in Brazil, which precedes Lent in the Christian calendar. The festivities are a blend of Portuguese and African influences, thanks to Brazil's colonial history and its significant African heritage.
History: The roots of Carnival date back to pagan festivals such as Saturnalia in ancient Rome. When Christianity spread, these traditions were incorporated into the pre-Lenten season. In Brazil, Carnival evolved with added elements from Afro-Brazilian culture, developing into its modern form by the 20th century.
Traditions: On Carnival Saturday, also known as "Sabado de Carnaval," Brazilians engage in numerous festive activities:
Street Parties (Blocos): Informal street parades known as 'blocos' take place, where revelers dress up in costumes and dance to music from samba to axé.
Samba School Performances: In cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, samba schools have rehearsals that are open to the public and showcase their elaborate dances and floats.
Themed Parties: Many clubs and venues host themed parties that go on until the early hours of the morning.
Carnival Balls: Traditional balls are held across cities. One of the most famous is the Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace in Rio.
Activities: People participate by dressing up in vibrant costumes or traditional white attire symbolizing peace and purity. They join dance troupes, play music, attend concerts or local community events, indulge in traditional foods like feijoada (a Brazilian stew), and enjoy caipirinhas (a Brazilian cocktail).
Carnival Saturday is a day of joyous celebration that sets the stage for the full splendor of Brazilian Carnival which reaches its peak on Sunday through Tuesday.
