The streets of São Paulo are gearing up for one of the most vibrant celebrations of Brazilian culture, the São Paulo Carnival 2025, which promises to be bigger and more engaging than ever. Starting this weekend, the city will host numerous events showcasing samba schools, street blocs, and celebrated artists, enticing both locals and tourists alike.
This year, the Sambódromo do Anhembi is set to kick off the carnival festivities on Saturday, February 22, at 6:30 PM, featuring the second edition of the Liga do Amanhã, a new initiative by the Liga Independente das Escolas de Samba de São Paulo (Liga-SP). This initiative will showcase children and teenagers aged 5 to 14, aiming to stimulate cultural expression within communities. Following this, the Raízes do Samba, one of the newer schools marking its 10th anniversary, will parade, captivating the audience with its rhythmic beats.
On the same day, attendees can expect performances from several samba schools, namely the Imperatriz da Paulicéia, Unidos do Peruche, and Morro da Casa Verde, among others. Notably, access to the Sambódromo is free, except for those wishing to enjoy the privileged views from the Camarotes Lounge and Esquenta, where tickets can be purchased online. Entrance is permitted for children aged five and above, provided they are accompanied by legal guardians.
The following day, February 23, Luíza Sonza will take the lead at the 'Bloco Modo Surto,' attracting Carnival enthusiasts with her energetic performances and dazzling ensemble. Having gathered momentum from its successful debut last year, the bloco promises to bring together other Brazilian musical stars, including Ana Castela and international guest Emilia Mernes. The concentration starts at 11 AM on Avenida Arquiteto Carlos Bratke and Rua Bragança Paulista.
Luíza Sonza expressed her enthusiasm for the event, discussing her initial cautious approach to hosting larger block parties akin to those seen annually at Salvador's Carnival. She shared, "I want to get experience here [in São Paulo], where I live, before I'm ready for Rio or Salvador." Her approach this year, inspired by artists like Ivete Sangalo and Bell Marques, hints at her ambition to expand her bloco experience to other cities.
Meanwhile, the blend of creative expressions at the Carnival is celebrated through vibrant costumes and spirited performances. Influencer Kéfera, who graced the 'Modo Surto' event, drew attention with her unique outfit and enthusiasm, explaining her choice of attire was serendipitous—simply the first colorful outfit she encountered online. She shared her strategy of taking moments to enjoy the pre-Carnival festivities before opting for solitude during the official celebration days.
With its eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary elements, the São Paulo Carnival includes blocks like Skaravana, dedicated to Jamaican musical genres such as reggae and ska. Official parades will feature lively performances with brass instruments and energetic rhythms, contributing to the carnival's diverse soundscape.
Alceu Valença is another renowned artist partaking in the festivities, leading the 'Bicho Maluco Beleza' bloco at the Parque do Ibirapuera. The crowd gathered to celebrate his music, demonstrating the remarkable influence and growth of this carnival tradition over the past decade. Valença reflected on the evolution of his bloco and how it has become more significant and attended over the years. "The carnival is very important for São Paulo’s economy," he stated, emphasizing the lack of governmental support, underlining the grassroots nature of these festivities.
Throughout the week leading to the main events, the city will pulsate with energy, with hundreds of blocos set to parade across various neighborhoods. Other notable blocks include 'Kaya na Gandaia' showcasing Afro-Brazilian and Jamaican rhythms, enriching the multicultural aspects of the carnival. This year’s highlights promise to engage audiences with both renowned and up-and-coming musical talents participating.
From samba to funk, and reggae to pop, Carnival 2025 encapsulates the essence of Brazilian culture—an expansive celebration of life, music, and community. It offers the melting pot experience, uniting individuals from different walks of life to partake in the joyous chaos and creativity of the carnival. A delightful concoction of colors, energy, and rhythm will characterize this year's festivities, making it not just an event but an unforgettable cultural experience!