São Paulo Carnaval 2025 is quickly approaching, bringing excitement, color, and music to the streets as samba schools prepare to display their lavish parades at the iconic Sambódromo do Anhembi. This year, the festival runs from February 28 to March 1, showcasing the creativity and talent of various samba schools as they compete for the prestigious title.
The Carnaval festivities not only highlight Brazil's rich cultural heritage but also unite communities through the universal language of samba. Everaldo Marques and Valéria Almeida will lead the exciting broadcasts, along with renowned specialist Milton Cunha, who will provide insightful commentary throughout the event. Judson Sales will also share expert commentary as the parades kick off.
The São Paulo Carnaval this year features compelling themes—known as enredos—that each school will represent during their performance. The first night of parades, on February 28, begins with Colorado do Brás, at 11:00 PM, paying homage to the indigenous culture with their theme, "O Manto Tupinambá". Their performance is expected to showcase the importance of the tupinambá mantle as a symbol of resistance and identity.
The subsequent school to hit the Sambódromo is Barroca Zona Sul, taking the stage at 12:05 AM, with their captivating enredo focused on Afro-Brazilian religious themes, titled "Os Nove Oruns de Iansã". This presentation promises to take audiences on a deep exploration of the nine oruns of Iansã, one of the most revered orishas.
Following them is Dragões da Real, set to perform at 1:10 AM. Known for their tribute to Brazilian icons, this year they will honor the late singer and composer Cazuza with their theme "Cazuza: O Poeta da Dor e da Alegria". Their parade will reflect his impactful artistic and personal life through vibrant displays.
Next, at 2:15 AM, Mancha Verde will celebrate renowned Brazilian samba artist Benito di Paula with their piece titled “Benito di Paula: O Poeta do Samba.” The following school, Acadêmicos do Tatuapé, will present at 3:20 AM, showing the magical world of the patuás—protective amulets significant to Afro-Brazilian culture—in their presentation, "Patuá: Magia e Encantamento".
The penultimate performance of the night, at 4:25 AM, will come from Rosas de Ouro, who will honor the strength of Brazilian women with their enredo "A Força da Mulher Brasileira". Finally, at 5:30 AM, Camisa Verde e Branco will weave the story of frevo music and dance, with their theme titled "A Magia do Frevo" rounding out the thrilling first night.
The second night of revelry continues on March 1, starting at 10:30 PM with Águia de Ouro exploring the influence of Japanese culture with their chosen enredo, "O Império do Sol Nascente". Império da Casa Verde follows at 11:35 PM, illuminating the mythical figure of Curupira to raise awareness about environmental preservation.
Also performing is Mocidade Alegre at 12:40 AM, who will celebrate samba as the soul of Brazil through their theme, "O Samba é a Minha Alma". A riveting storytelling performance awaits the audience as Gaviões da Fiel segues at 1:45 AM, focusing on Brazil's favorite sport with their presentation called "A História do Futebol Brasileiro".
Later, Acadêmicos do Tucuruvi will showcase the enchanting world of circuses at 2:50 AM with their theme, "A Magia do Circo". Estrela do Terceiro Milênio will follow at 3:55 AM, cosmically delving deep with their narrative, "O Universo e Seus Mistérios". Finally, the celebrated Vai-Vai will bring the festivities to a close at 5:00 AM with their homage to São Paulo's samba history, aptly titled "A História do Samba Paulistano".
For those who wish to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the parade in person, tickets for the bleachers have already sold out. Yet, opportunities remain for those interested in the exclusive camarotes, such as the Camarote Esquenta, offering fans elevated views and improved experiences.
Those unable to attend can still immerse themselves in the spectacle, as the events will be broadcast live on TV Globo and will also be accessible on Globoplay, ensuring the magic of Carnaval reaches audiences at home.
Following the major parades, the Desfile das Campeãs—featuring the standout performances from the festival—will occur on March 8, 2025, presenting another extraordinary chance to witness the best of São Paulo's samba.
Brazil's Carnaval is more than just entertainment; it is celebrated cultural resilience and artistry, bringing together performers and revelers from all walks of life. Everyone is invited to join the party, whether at the Sambódromo or from the comfort of their living rooms, as São Paulo gets ready to samba its way through 2025!