In Brazil, on Saturday, party-goers sought to secure free tickets for the Special Group's performances in Sector 1 at the Marquês de Sapucaí, renowned for being the starting point of the parades. Even before the official ticket distribution, set to begin at 8:00 AM, long lines formed as eager attendees arrived early to ensure they wouldn't miss out on experiencing one of the most vibrant areas of the Sambódromo.

Sector 1 is often regarded as the most energetic section of the Sambódromo, where schools begin their parade with a preliminary warm-up known as 'esquenta.' This location serves not only as a prime viewing area but also acts as a litmus test for the participating samba schools, making it highly coveted among fans and supporters.

The ticket distribution process, taking place behind Sector 11 of the Sambódromo, involves facial biometrics to strengthen access control during the parades. Participants must present a valid photo ID and CPF; minors are required to be accompanied by an adult. The distribution continues until 2 PM or until all spots are filled, further reflecting the high demand for these free tickets, especially among the samba community enthusiasts.