- History and Origins
- First celebrated in Italy in 1094 as Carnevale
- First Brazilian Carnival in 1641 celebrated by Portuguese immigrants
- Combines Portuguese and African cultures through samba dance
- Samba schools established in 1920s, first parade in 1932
- Key Features
- Celebrated on Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, March 4
- Features colorful costumes, samba music, parades, and food festivals
- Sambadrome hosts 13 top samba schools, accommodates 90,000 people
- Rio de Janeiro hosts largest carnival celebrations
- Cultural Elements
- Traditional costumes inspired by African slaves
- Samba dance and music became integral part of celebrations
- Costumes range from $900 to $10,000 each
- Participants wore white clothes in 1930s due to heat
- Significance
- Prepares for Christian Lent period
- Shows Brazilian culture and history
- Creates social integration among Brazilians and tourists
- Features grand parades and street parties