Planning to experience the greatest show on Earth? The Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025 brings exciting changes to make the spectacular samba school parades even more unforgettable! Here’s everything you need to know about dates, times, and essential tips to make the most of this incredible cultural celebration.
What’s New for Carnival 2025?
Get ready for the biggest change in years – the Special Group parades will be expanded to three nights! For the first time in history, the main parades will take place on Carnival Sunday, Monday, AND Tuesday (March 2, 3, and 4). That means more time to enjoy each school’s performance, with every parade lasting between 70 and 80 minutes – 10 minutes longer than last year!
Dica: Aproveite também para fazer estes passeios no Rio de Janeiro
Cristo Redentor de trem e tour pelo Rio de janeiro. Duração: 4 horas
Passeio grátis pelo centro histórico do Rio e Lapa. Duração: 3 horas
Free tour pelo bairro de Santa Teresa. Duração: 2h 30m
Amanhecer no mirante de Dona Marta + Cristo Redentor Duração: 4 horas
Veja todos os passeios e tranfers no Rio de Janeiro
Plus, with fewer schools performing each night, there’s now room for extra shows and entertainment between the parades. That means even more fun for the same ticket price!
Série Ouro (Accessible and High-Energy Parades)
Friday (02/28):
Botafogo Samba Clube, Arranco do Engenho de Dentro, Inocentes de Belford Roxo, Unidos da Ponte, Estácio de Sá, União de Maricá, Em Cima da Hora, and União da Ilha.
Saturday (03/01):
Tradição, União do Parque Acari, Acadêmicos do Vigário Geral, Unidos de Bangu, Porto da Pedra, São Clemente, Acadêmicos de Niterói, and Império Serrano.
Time: Starting at 8 PM (arrive early to secure good spots!).
Complete Parade Schedule
Special Group Parades
Sunday, March 2
- Unidos de Padre Miguel – 10 PM
- Imperatriz Leopoldinense – between 11:30 PM and 11:40 PM
- Viradouro – between 12:50 AM and 1:10 AM
- Mangueira – between 2 AM and 2:20 AM
Monday, March 3
- Unidos da Tijuca – 10 PM
- Beija-Flor – between 11:30 PM and 11:40 PM
- Salgueiro – between 12:50 AM and 1:10 AM
- Vila Isabel – between 2:10 AM and 2:40 AM
Tuesday, March 4
- Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel – 10 PM
- Paraíso do Tuiuti – between 11:30 PM and 11:40 PM
- Grande Rio – between 12:50 AM and 1:10 AM
- Portela – between 2:10 AM and 2:40 AM
Tickets: How to Secure Yours?
Tickets for the Série Ouro and the Special Group are not free. They can be purchased on the official websites of Liga RJ and LIESA. Prices vary depending on the sector (bleachers, box seats, or camarote), so keep an eye out for updates!
Sambadrome Rules: What to Bring (and What to Leave at Home)
- ✅ Allowed:
- 2 drinks in plastic packaging (up to 500 ml each).
- 2 food items (fruit, snacks, or sandwiches).
- Children up to 16 years old must be accompanied by a guardian.
- 🚫 Prohibited:
- Glass bottles, coolers, large bags.
- Weapons, sharp objects, fireworks.
Important: Bring only what you need to enjoy yourself with peace of mind!
Extra Tips for Tourists
- Arrive early: Access to the Sambadrome can take time.
- Use public transportation: Metro and buses have special routes during Carnival.
- Accommodation: Book in advance — hotels in the South Zone and Downtown are the most in-demand.
Experience the Magic of Rio Carnival!
Rio Carnival is a unique experience where Brazilian culture pulses in every drumbeat and float. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this spectacle! 📸 Enjoy, share your photos with #Carnaval2025Rio, and tag the friends who need to be there with you. The Sapucaí awaits you! 🎉
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Featured photo: Agência Brasil Fotografias