Key dates
Carnival Tuesday falls on February 9, 2027. The main week includes the weekend before, but street events and rehearsals may start earlier. If you're traveling for the parades, check the nights and tickets published by LIESA; if you prefer blocos, follow Riotur's official schedule before settling on each day.
Sambódromo or blocos: what kind of experience are you after?
At the Sambódromo Marquês de Sapucaí, you watch the samba school parades from ticketed sectors. It's an experience you plan in advance, and it can run until the early hours. Blocos are street parties of different sizes and routes: some draw huge crowds, while others are neighborhood affairs. You can combine both, but leave time to rest and get around.
Where to stay and how to get around
Choose your accommodation based on the trip back, not just the price. A nearby metro station can make getting around easier, but check special hours and street closures once they're announced. Book with clear cancellation terms, verify the exact address and don't count on a car getting you to the door of a bloco.
What to check before buying
For any ticket, check the day, sector, entrance, official seller and exchange policy. Don't confuse a rehearsal, a competitive parade and the Champions' Parade. Times and the order of the schools should be confirmed with LIESA; the street program, with Riotur.
A practical three-step plan
- Choose the type of Carnival and the dates of your stay.
- Book a base that lets you get back at night by a reasonable route.
- Once the official schedule is published, mark one main event per day and a backup.
Video ideas for inspiration
To see travelers' experiences and tips in Spanish, browse the Río para Argentinos reels ↗. Treat them as inspiration and check dates, prices, access and programming on each edition's official channels.
What Carnival 2026 was like
A photo of the União da Ilha do Governador parade in February 2026 and a traveler's video help you picture the rhythm of the festivities. The 2027 program, sectors and routes must be confirmed separately.
