Blogging
From Abroad

For the second day in a row, I was surprised by a street parade passing directly below my window. The official Carnival events will take place this weekend, but the energy and excitement has been tangible in the city for the past month. These street parades are considered by some to be the true spirit of samba and Carnival, while others prefer the more professional and well-known sights of the parade in the Sambadromo.

Either way, the blocos are informal and very fun. The events start with a core of musicians who start playing and walking around the neighborhood. Dancers, musicians, and onlookers join in until the celebration takes up nearly an entire block of the road.

The thing that really entices me is the energy around the music. Everyone knows the words and dances and sings along enthusiastically; it’s a rush just to watch. The focus isn’t on musical precision or ability, but on the pure excitement and community created by the music.

I’ll be enjoying the full experience of Carnival this weekend, so I’ll be sure to update the dust clears. There are two main nights of the famous Carnival parades, but the festivities around the city last for over a week. It has been difficult to choose from the plethora of incredible events taking place.

Paz,
Colin