Rio Carnival - Backstage experiences of the carnival

Author : Unwild Planet

Welcome to the backstage of the Rio Carnival - a no less than a Hollywood set experience filled with a lot of energy, drama, glitters, and all the colorful costumes and floats. The Rio Carnival is a dazzling, world-renowned annual celebration in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Rooted in a rich history dating back to the 17th century, this vibrant extravaganza melds African, European, and indigenous influences into a riotous display of samba rhythms, lavish costumes, and exuberant parades, captivating millions of revelers worldwide. Now, know what it takes to pull off this event - people's dedication, effort, and emotions attached to it, the history of the carnival, and much more by experiencing the Rio Carnival backstage tour.

What is backstage experience?

The backstage experience is a guided tour to the backstage of the Rio Carnival. Simply put, it's walking through the process behind the actual carnival. Samba schools prepare for the celebration in the massive staging area. From rehearsing the captivating dance moves to designing the costumes and floats, you can witness every procedure, interact with the participants, and learn many things about the carnival.

Where is the backstage of the Rio Carnival?

It is a huge complex of warehouses in the port region of Rio, where around fourteen Samba schools spend an entire year preparing for the event.

When can you take a backstage tour?

Rio Carnival usually takes place in February every year, but you can access a guided backstage tour anytime barring the main parade dates at the Carnival. While experiencing before or near the carnival, you can feel the heat. But there would be secrecy regarding the floats as they're one of the major attractions of the carnival.

Who are the guides of the backstage experience?

Former kids and members of the carnival, trained in different foreign languages, are the guides of this tour.

What to expect?

Exploring the Rio Carnival backstage is diving deep into Brazilian history and culture. Here's what you can expect from this backstage experience:

It's a guided tour of approximately two and a half hours.
Learn about the history of the carnivals and the Samba schools.

A 10 min movie about the carnival and its year-around preparation
Interact with the Samba dancers and try some moves as well. Take photos with them and the other members, and create a lifetime of memories.
Learn about the procedure from the prototype to the creation of the costumes. Try on costumes and take pictures while they are on.

Learn about the floats and their creation process.
You can also buy souvenirs from the place.
End your tour with a glass of Caipirinhas - the famous Brazilian cocktail.

The money comes from the backstage tour proceeds to non-profit organizations that help low-income kids participate in the Samba schools.

Rio Carnival is a powerful expression of Brazilian culture, rich heritage, and social connections. In 2022, the carnival took a revolutionary step by including the LGBTQA+ community people to the front. Previously, they used to be a considerable part of the backstage, but now you can witness them groove in the translucent beats of Samba with all the glitters and glory. Immerse into the festive energy and feel more connected by taking an impeccable tour backstage before it.

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