The origins of Rio Carnival are still unclear, but most historians seem to agree that it started as a pagan celebration in ancient Rome (or Greece). The Carnival is heavily influenced by African traditions, hence the abundance of feathers (symbolizing spiritual growth). It's safe to assume that the Carnival is as ancient as Christianity itself.
Carnival balls were "imported" to Rio from Italy in the late 19th century. By 1860, the Rio Carnival as we know it today began to take its distinctive form. The upper classes celebrated the carnival in their private and expensive locations, getting out on the streets only at night, wearing superb masks and dressed in magnificent costumes. The masses, who couldn't afford the balls, were given masks to participate in the streets.
The Rio Carnival had its golden period starting from the 30s with legendary balls held at the Copacabana Palace. Samba schools started to emerge in Rio de Janeiro causing massive traffic problems until the Sambadrome was built for the pleasure of both Brazilians and tourists. Therefore, the Samba Parade found a permanent home at the 700-meter long Sambadrome.
The "Sambodromo," as it is called in Portuguese, is a structure in the downtown area, designed for the paying public so they could watch the Rio Carnival in relative safety. The prices range from $20 for low cost seats to $500 for balcony boxes (or thousands of dollars in the black markets, as these seats are sold out very quickly).
Today, the Samba Parade is broadcasted to dozens of countries, and all of Brazil states. Many people think of it as the greatest show on Earth and for good reason when you watch Rio Carnival pictures or assist the event in person. Each year, the Samba schools choose a theme for which they are judged, along with their creativity, musicality and the overall coordination of their members.
There's much more to Rio Carnival than the Samba Parade, though, such as public conIn the above picture, a reveller prepares for the Rio Carnival 2011s held in Hotels, where Cariocas (city inhabitants) dress up in costumes of such extravagance and beauty, that it puts all other official carnival costumes to shame. But never mind that; let's check out the very best of Rio Carnival 2011. Enjoy!
Pictures of the 2011 Rio Carnival
Rio Carnival 2011 photos of Brazilian hotties. Warning: naked dancers ahead!
In the above picture, a reveller prepares for the Rio Carnival 2011
In the above photo, a reveller invites you to the 2011 Rio Carnival
In the above picture, the crowd prepares for the greatest show on Earth
In the above image, a reveller in one of the best costumes of the carnival
In the above photo, Drum Queen Sheron Menezes. Click for bigger picture!
In the above picture, a beautiful Rio Carnival reveller gazes at the camera
In the above image, another reveller rejoices at the 2011 Rio Carnival
In the above image, a reveller of the Mangueira School. Click for bigger picture!
In the above photo, a reveller of the Vila Isabel School. Click for bigger picture!
In the above image, a reveller of the Portela Samba School goes green
In the above photo, the Sambadrome crowd cheering. Click for bigger picture!
In the above picture, a beautiful Samba Queen from the Rio Carnival
In the above picture, a setting from the fabulous 2011 Rio Carnival
In the above picture, a member of the press takes photos. Click for bigger picture!
In the above image, the Unidos da Tijuca Samba School. Click for bigger picture!
In the above photo, Vila Isabel School at the 2011 Rio Carnival. Get clicky!
Rio Carnival Dates for 2012, 2013 & 2014
Carnival Rio 2011 started on March 5th.
In the upcoming years, the Rio Carnival will be held on these dates:
In the upcoming years, the Rio Carnival will be held on these dates:
- February 18th in 2012
- February 9th in 2013
- March 1st in 2014
They say that you haven't lived until you've been to Rio for the Carnival. If you have the financial means, just go! You won't be disappointed... Did you like this story?
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