The official pre-carnival festivities commenced in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, on Saturday, January 6, attracting a large number of participants who filled the streets to join in the celebrations. Many locals sought out the various blocos, which included popular ones like Mama na Vaca, Fera Neném, CEFET com Banana, Afoxé Ogum De, and Banda Mole, each taking to the streets in different neighborhoods throughout the capital. The atmosphere was vibrant and festive, marking the start of the pre-carnival excitement.

A total of eighteen blocos took part in the celebrations, drawing in large crowds of revelers from areas such as Alípio de Melo, Belvedere, Santa Tereza, Vila Aeroporto, and Trevo. The event was characterized by a sense of community and joy, with participants donning colorful costumes and engaging in lively music and dance. The pre-carnival week has become a highly anticipated time for the city, as it sets the stage for the larger Carnival celebrations that follow.

In addition to the festive atmosphere, the blocos are often used as a platform for social and political commentary. For instance, the bloco Fera Neném, which aims to bring parents and children together for the carnival experience, staged a protest against a proposed city council project that seeks to restrict children's participation in carnival activities. Such actions highlight the intersection of culture and civic engagement during this celebratory period, showcasing how the camaraderie of carnival can serve deeper societal purposes.