Viviane Araújo, known as the 'queen of queens', kicked off her carnival festivities on the evening of Friday, the 6th, in the coastal city of Santos, São Paulo. Dressed in a dazzling blue costume with a deep neckline and adorned with intricate details, she was the invited queen of the samba school União Imperial. As she paraded, Araújo was met with cheers from the crowd and flashes from photographers, emphasizing her prominence in the carnival scene.

At the heart of the celebrations, Araújo explained that her costume represented a character from the African cultural matrix, channeling the spirit of the Orixás, particularly Ogum, a significant figure in Afro-Brazilian spirituality. This year's theme honored 50 years of União Imperial, and Araújo shared her deep sense of pride in representing such a rich cultural heritage during the festivities. Her presence additionally underscores the importance of Afro-Brazilian traditions within the carnival context.

Having participated in the carnival for over three decades, with 29 years reigning in front of a samba drum line, Araújo expressed her joy at participating in the Santos carnival for the second time. She remarked on the warmth and energy she felt from the audience, highlighting the emotional connection that the carnival fosters among participants and spectators alike. Her status as a beloved figure in Brazilian culture continues to thrive as she engages with the vibrant traditions of the carnival season.