Carnival is one of the most iconic and colorful festivities in the world, and Brazil is known for celebrating one of the most extravagant carnivals of all. This annual festivity attracts millions of visitors from all over the world who want to enjoy the joy and contagious energy of this event. In this Brazil Green Travel article, we will talk about what carnival is, when it is celebrated and what are its reasons.
What is carnival?
Carnival is a holiday that has its roots in Christian tradition and marks the period of celebration that precedes Lent, the season of reflection and abstinence observed by many Christians before Easter. However, over the centuries, carnival has evolved into a secular holiday that celebrates life, freedom and creative expression.
How is carnival celebrated in Brazil?
Carnival in Brazil is a great combination of music, dance, color and creativity that takes place over several days, just before the beginning of Lent. During this time, the streets of Brazilian cities are filled with parades, street parties, live music shows and dances that last late into the night.
One of the most distinctive features of the Brazilian carnival are the samba parades, which take place at the famous Sambadrome in Rio de Janeiro and in other cities throughout the country. These parades are true spectacles of grandeur and creativity, with samba schools competing against each other to impress the public and the judges with their elaborate floats, colorful costumes and impressive choreography.
Why is carnival celebrated in Brazil?
The celebration of carnival in Brazil has deep historical and cultural roots dating back to the country’s colonial era. For centuries, carnival has been an opportunity for people of all social classes and ethnic backgrounds to come together to celebrate their cultural identity and sense of community.
In addition, carnival in Brazil has become a major tourist industry that attracts visitors from all over the world. Each year, millions of tourists flock to Brazil to experience the magic of carnival, contributing to job creation and growth in the tourism sector.
But beyond its economic aspects, it is an opportunity to express creativity freely and without restrictions, and to celebrate Brazil’s diversity and cultural richness.
When is carnival celebrated in Brazil?
Carnival in Brazil is officially celebrated for five days, beginning on the Friday before Ash Wednesday and culminating on Shrove Tuesday. However, in many cities, the festivities begin much earlier and continue long after these official dates, making carnival a weeks-long celebration.
The exact dates of Carnival vary each year, as they are determined by the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church, which in turn is based on the date of Easter. Generally, carnival takes place between late February and early March, but the exact dates may change from year to year.
We can say that the Brazilian carnival is more than just a party, it is a manifestation of national identity, a celebration of life and an expression of human creativity in its purest and most radiant form.
