Rio is known for it’s famous Carnival parade with spectacular floats, semi-nude samba dancers and thundering drums, but in recent years, we’ve seen the return of the old school carnival celebration in the streets with “Bandas” and “Blocos”.
One of the most famous Banda is called “Banda de Ipanema”, which is famous for attracting a lot Drag Queens in extravagant costumes. They put on a show, stopping traffic and teasing bashful onlookers all in good fun. The street Carnival in Ipanema, is of course it’s home, along with other blocos such as Simpatia quase Amor and others. You can join the crowd as the parade through the neighborhood streets along with a huge truck carrying a band and VERY loud samba, or, many people watch from the comfort of their Ipanema apartments.
Another don’t miss, is Monobloco, they are the largest Bloco in Rio and parade the Sunday after the end of Carnival, the crowds is enormous, rivaling the New Year’s eve crowd as everyone joins together for one last Carnival celebration. Monobloco parades in Copacabana, so for those with oceanfront Copacabana apartments, you’ll have a VIP view of the madness!
Bandas and Blocos are also found in Santa Teresa, Lapa and other districts. They are a great alternative to the traditional samba parade and you get to participate, not just watch.
Carnival in 2009 will be from Feb 21 – 24, so start making plans now!
Best of all, it’s free! – You can easily meet people, make a love connection, drink, eat and be merry.
