Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2026: Brazil’s biggest party

Every year, as the calendar moves towards February and summer reaches its most vibrant point in the southern hemisphere, Rio transforms into the epicenter of a celebration that admits no comparisons: The Rio de Janeiro Carnival .

This collective expression of music , dance , color , and identity transforms the city into the world's largest festive stage. In 2026, it will be held from February 13th to 21st .

The magnitude of its parades, the international impact , the artistic quality of the samba schools and the massive participation of locals and tourists make this celebration the largest and most emblematic in the country.

Brazil's biggest party

Rio Carnival is Brazil's biggest popular festival and one of the world's most important cultural events . Its roots trace back to European traditions brought during the colonial period, blended with African and local influences that gave rise to a unique celebration.

Over time, Carnival became established as a symbol of Rio identity , with samba as a universal language.

For several days, Rio de Janeiro vibrates to the rhythm of the blocos , open-air parties and, above all, the famous parades of the samba schools , which represent the competitive and artistic heart of Carnival.

Millions of people participate in this celebration, whether dancing in the streets or following every detail of the parades that bring the country to a standstill.

The Rio de Janeiro Carnival is celebrated in February , in the days leading up to the start of Lent , following the Christian liturgical calendar .

Although the exact dates vary each year, the city begins to feel the festive atmosphere weeks before, with rehearsals , pre-events and a cultural program that extends well beyond the central days.

The Sambadrome, the heart of Rio Carnival

To talk about the Rio Carnival is to talk about the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí , an emblematic space designed by the architect Oscar Niemeyer and conceived exclusively to host the parades of the samba schools .

With a capacity for tens of thousands of spectators , the Sambadrome is a monumental catwalk where each year the top schools compete for the title of champion .

There, the most spectacular show of Carnival unfolds: giant floats , thousands of dancers , costumes crafted over months, and a visual narrative that blends history , social commentary , and fantasy . Each samba school parades for about an hour, presenting a central theme before the watchful eyes of judges and the public.

Travelers can access the Sambadrome with a ticket . There are different sections and ticket categories , from general admission to numbered seats and VIP boxes , allowing the experience to be tailored to different budgets .

Celebrate the Rio de Janeiro Carnival – February 2026 (4 days / 3 nights)

Rio Carnival: The perfect excuse to explore Rio de Janeiro

Traveling to Rio de Janeiro during Carnival is an unbeatable opportunity to discover its main tourist attractions , many of them world- renowned icons .

Christ the Redeemer , one of the seven wonders of the modern world , offers panoramic views of the city. Sugarloaf Mountain , with its traditional cable car , allows you to appreciate Guanabara Bay from a unique perspective.

Copacabana and Ipanema beaches are the stars of Rio's summer , while the Selarón Steps stand out for their urban art and vibrant colors . Just minutes from the hustle and bustle, Parque Lage offers a privileged natural setting at the foot of Corcovado Mountain.

The Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2026 is a gateway to Brazilian culture , its diversity , creativity , and zest for life. In 2026, travelers will have another opportunity to experience Brazil's biggest party , at least once in a lifetime.

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