What to expect of the Parade?
the competition:
First and foremost, it's important to note that Carnival is all about beauty, emotion, and competition. Each Samba School does their best to win the top spot.
In Rio de Janeiro, there are 100 Samba Schools categorized into 5 different leagues. However, in the Sambadrome, only the top-tier Special Group with 12 Samba Schools and the Second Group consisting of 16 Samba Schools participate in the parades.
Here's the schedule for 2024:
The Special League comprises the prominent Samba Schools of Rio de Janeiro, and they perform on the main show days. The Second Division consists of smaller Samba Schools, and its winner earns a spot in the Special League for the following year.
The Sambadrome parades take place every year in February and March. In 2024, the Special League parades are scheduled for February 11th and 12th, the Second Division parades on February 9th and 10th, and the Children's League on February 13th. The Kids Parade is free to attend.
The top 6 Samba Schools from the Special League return for a celebratory parade on February 17th, known as the Champions Parade.
The dynamic of the parade
For the Second Division parade, both days kick off at 9 pm, and the Samba Schools must complete their performance within a maximum of 60 minutes. Delays can result in point deductions.
In the Special League, each night features 6 Samba Schools, commencing at 10 pm. They are allotted a window of 65 to 75 minutes to cross the avenue. The same rules apply for timing delays.
Throughout the spectacle, the Samba Schools showcase their themes to the judges, a live audience of 80,000 at the Sambadrome, and the millions of viewers watching on television.
The parade is planned to conclude at 5 am, assuming there are no delays. A 15-minute break separates each Samba School's presentation. During these intermissions, you have the opportunity to visit the restroom, conveniently located in each sector of the Sambadrome. You can also take this time to explore the Sambodrome, purchase refreshments and snacks, and interact with the local people.
Book your ticket with us and enjoy this magnificent show!