Carnival Sunday in Brazil

Overview: Carnival Sunday is part of the larger Carnival celebration in Brazil, which takes place every year before Lent. It is a significant day within the festivities that are famous for their vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and samba music.

History: The origins of Carnival in Brazil can be traced back to Portuguese colonists who brought the tradition of celebrating before Lent. Over time, it evolved into a unique blend of European, African, and Indigenous influences.

Traditions:

• Samba Parades: Samba schools compete in extravagant parades showcasing elaborate floats, costumes, and choreography. Rio de Janeiro's Sambadrome hosts one of the most famous parades.
• Blocos: Street parties known as "blocos" occur throughout cities with live music and dancing. They are open to everyone and range from small gatherings to massive crowds.
• Costumes: Participants often wear colorful and sometimes ornate costumes that reflect different themes or cultural aspects.
• Music: Samba is the quintessential music of Carnival; drumming groups called "baterias" provide energetic rhythms that drive the parades and street parties.

What People Do: On Carnival Sunday:

• Locals and tourists alike flock to parade routes or participate in blocos.
• People dance to samba music, enjoy traditional Brazilian food and drinks like caipirinhas.
• Many take part in or watch the ongoing competitions between samba schools.

Carnival Sunday is a day when social norms are relaxed, and revelry is encouraged before the more somber period of Lent begins.