Carnival in Brazil is an annual celebration lasting for five days, commencing 40 days before Easter. It kicks off on a Friday and concludes on the Tuesday right before Ash Wednesday. Much like Easter, the precise date of Carnival varies from year to year. 

In 2024, Carnival begins on Friday, February 9th, and wraps up on Tuesday, February 12th, with the Winner's Parade set for Saturday, February 17th. 

For a comprehensive breakdown of how the Samba School Parades and the judging criteria function, visit our Samba School blog post.

Which days of the parade are considered the most impressive?

The grandest parades occur on Sunday and Monday, featuring the top Samba schools competing for the title of the best in Rio. These performances last about 90 minutes and are the Carnival highlights.

• How and When to Reserve Your Tickets

Parade tickets become available for purchase every May of the preceding year. To secure the most favorable prices and take advantage of early bird promotions, it's wise to book your tickets as soon as they are released. Don't miss the opportunity to make the most of Rio Carnival's sensational parades. Book ahead!

• Is there a group discount available through us?

We always provide the best ticket value to all our customers, so we don't have specific promotions exclusively for groups. However, large groups can take advantage of other exclusive offers, including private transportation, carnival accessories, and waived shipping fees for tickets.

• What are the prime seats at the Sambadrome?

For a comprehensive list of all the Sambadrome sections, along with guidance on transportation and seating recommendations, please visit our dedicated Sambadrome page.

• Are children welcome to watch the parade?

Certainly! The parades are a family-friendly experience, and many parents enjoy bringing their young ones. The minimum age for entry to the Sambadrome is 6 years old.

• Are there any areas for people with special needs?

Specifically allocated for individuals with physical disabilities, there are designated spaces after Sector 13 (300 seats with a companion seat) and Sector 10 (12 seats with a companion seat). Additionally, in the bleachers of sectors 2, 4, 6, and 8, there are reserved spots for up to 8 wheelchairs per sector.

• Can I join the parade with the schools?

You can buy a costume from a Samba school and join the parade with the passistas and drums. We facilitates this, and for more details, reach out to us.

• Can I participate in the school parade and also watch from the grandstand on the same day?

While it's technically possible, we don't advise it. You'd require two separate tickets             (one for the costume and another for the Sambadrome), and participants need to be at the location at least three hours in advance, potentially causing you to miss most of the other school performances.

What's the process for picking up my tickets?

When you buy carnival tickets from us, you'll get a confirmation email with a reservation number. Keep this email—it's your proof to pick up your actual tickets in Rio. Visit our Carnival Center at Arena Copacabana Hotel to collect them, or we can deliver to your hotel for an extra charge.

Is it possible to cancel my reservation or make any changes?

Ticket modifications or cancellations are accepted until August 31st, 2024. Reach out to our specialists for reservation changes. Please note, VIP Lounges are non-refundable or changeable. After September 1st, 2024, tickets, including VIP Lounges, can't be refunded and may incur a cancellation fee.

Requests for changes should match the name on your documents.
For name changes, email us with the new name and order confirmation.
To update your email, send a copy of your passport and order confirmation.

How can I confirm that my reservation was successful?

You should get a confirmation email from us. If you don't receive it within 24 hours of your purchase, please reach out to us.

What kind of documents should I have when picking up my tickets?

Once you're in Rio, visit our Carnival center at Arena Copacabana Hotel for all the Carnival details. To get your tickets, just show the emailed receipt and a copy of your ID or passport. Remember, the tickets must match the name on the reservation. If you like, we can also deliver them to your hotel.

What's the way to reach the Sambadrome?

• To reach odd-numbered sectors at the Sambadrome, consider taking a taxi or the subway (Central Station/Estação Central).

• For even-numbered sectors, it's advised to use the subway to Praça Onze station. Driving is not recommended due to limited parking in the area.

• Municipal buses are not safe during carnival nights, so it's best to avoid them.

• Shuttle transfers are available from select hotels in Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon, Botafogo, Barra da Tijuca, and Centro. Book your shuttle in advance to ease your journey on the night of the party.

I bought the Folia Tropical VIP Lounge. Can you tell me where and when is the pick up?

Transportation to the Sambodromo is provided round-trip via vans or minibuses, fully equipped with necessary credentials and air conditioning.

For Zona Sul (Monte Líbano, Lagoa):
Saturday: 20h, 21h, 22h, 23h, 00h
Sunday, Monday, and Saturday's Winners Parade: 19h30, 20h30, 21h30, 22h30, 23h30, 00h

For Barra da Tijuca (Windsor Oceânico, Posto 3):
Saturday: 19h30, 20h30, 21h30, 22h30, 23h30
Sunday, Monday, and Saturday's Winners Parade: 18h45, 19h45, 20h45, 21h45, 22h45, 23h45

What's the best place to stay in Rio?

The South zone is the top choice for accommodations and highly recommended. Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon neighborhoods are safest and closest to the beach, though pricier. Lapa, Flamengo, and Botafogo are generally more affordable and still conveniently located for tourist activities.

What can you do in Rio during the day?

In Rio, besides its breathtaking beaches, museums, and architectural wonders, you can immerse yourself in the Carnival spirit by exploring over 500 street parties happening throughout the city during Carnival days. For an authentic Carnival experience, consider a visit to Samba City. Established in 2006, this complex hosts various activities associated with the largest Samba Schools in Rio de Janeiro. Discover more about these vibrant options in our website.

What's the nightlife like in Rio?

Rio Carnival features numerous parties and balls featuring international DJs and sought-after tickets. Explore our recommended events on our website.