From today, the carnival madness once again takes over Rio de Janeiro with a wave of optimism after the end of the restrictions due to COVID-19 and the change of government in Brazil, reported France Press. 

Since last weekend, musical processions have been filling the streets, while samba schools are finalizing the last details of their lavish parades, which will be organized on the night of Sunday and Monday.

The show promises to be spectacular, with monumental platforms the height of multi-story buildings and thousands of costumed dancers from the schools, who until dawn parade one after another on the famous sambodrome, BTA informs.

This year, the parades return to their traditional setting.

Last year, they were delayed by two months due to the increased number of COVID-19 cases.

In 2021, the carnival was completely canceled due to the pandemic.

This year's edition is the first without restrictions, but also the first since the return to power of leftist President Lula da Silva, who defeated his far-right predecessor Bolsonaro in the presidential election. 

The festivities officially begin today when Mayor Eduardo Paes hands over the keys to the city to "King Momo". 

Every night, the sambodrome is expected to welcome around 100,000 people, including 70,000 spectators and the people who march for the 12 samba schools participating in the great carnival competition.

Each formation has between 60 and 70 minutes to parade along the "Marques de Sapucai" - a street about 700 meters long, surrounded by stands. The schools will have to seduce the public, but also the jury, who will evaluate them according to criteria such as parade theme, percussion instruments, quality of platforms and costumes.

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro has begun (video)

During the last Carnival editions, some of the parades were more or less openly critical of Bolsonaro's government, accused of discriminating against minorities and sacrificing culture budgets. 

This year, several schools have chosen to highlight Brazil's African roots, the iconic figures of samba or the cultural traditions of the impoverished regions of the Northeast.

Carnival is the mirror of Brazil.

After these dark times, both in popular culture and politics, Brazil needs to bring out the best in itself.

The choice of themes is not random, it is the light after the darkness, says Leandro Vieira, artistic director of one of the schools.

``Beyond social criticism, this year's carnival is a great manifestation of joy, a celebration of life, of overcoming difficulties,'' said Adair Rocha, director of the cultural department at Rio State University.

Brazil

Rio de Janeiro

carnival