The largest and most spectacular party in the world... Rio Carnaval.
This was the main event that we'd been looking forward to since the words ¨We´re going to Rio!¨ were uttered.
There was no way that we could prepared ourselves for what lay ahead... hold on to your hats (oh, and your wallet and cameras) it´s time for the crazy Carioca carnaval!
The bloco on Rua Veira Souto, Ipanema. We were lucky enough to have friends who have an apartment over looking the beach and this spectacular view of a true bloco!
The blocos (street parties) are the best way to celebrate this event. These consist of a procession of drummers and vocalists followed by anyone who wants to dance through the streets of Rio. Just a few decided to join in. The brazilians know how to party!
Some blocos require costumes - drag, amazonian, really anything goes ....ummmmm looking good
Look who has popped into town to experience carnaval with us .....
And the Sambadromo...
Words can not describe the excitement that the four of us were feeling. After the bloco experience, we were not quite sure what to expect, but we knew we were in for a good time.
The atmosphere was electric, the crowd was full of energy and excitement and the music was thumping in our chests and of course the beer was flowing ... let the carnaval parade begin!
Each of the 6 samba schools had between 2,500 and 4,000 participants who must cover the Passarela do Samba (parading area) in not less than 65 minutes and no more than 80 minutes. In that time they put on a performance every bit complex and visually exciting as any musical showing in London´s West End.
Samba schools are large social clubs found in Rio´s poorer communities and neighbourhoods, often linked to the local favelas.
Our amazing seats were directly opposite the judging box, so the best performances were witnessed, which were full of passion, emotion and energy.
Each samba school plays their anthem which is on a ~90 second loop for the the full 80 minutes.... The anthem reaches a crescendo as the samba band comes through - each school has a band of at least 200 people (here dressed as monkeys)
As you can see every band is led by a carnival drum queen, who energises the crowd with her dancing...
... and feathered costume...
... and killer heels...
... and other assets...
The extravaganza continues...
At 4.30am it was time to go home, but the parade and party at the Sambadromo continued long into the morning.
An incredible experience of sight and sound!
Some fantastic memories of the entire carnival holiday.....xxxx
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