The pre-carnival festivities in Salvador officially began with the Furdunço parade, which took place in the narrow streets of the Santo Antônio Além do Carmo neighborhood. This lively event saw thousands of revelers joining traditional blocks, dancing to festive carnival music known as marchinhas. Families attended, exemplified by entrepreneur Marina Melo, who brought her daughter to experience the joy and diversity of Salvador's carnival atmosphere for the first time.

As the parade continued through the Barra/Ondina circuit, the scale of the celebration became apparent, with fifty-seven attractions captivating crowds along the coastline. The Furdunço serves as a prelude to the larger carnival celebrations that will last until Ash Wednesday, marking the start of the festive season in the city. Unlike traditional carnival celebrations, this event is characterized as a "carnival without ropes," meaning that participants can follow and engage with performers of their choice, immersing themselves in various musical styles, including axé, samba, pagode, and arrocha.

The vibrant atmosphere of the Furdunço parade emphasizes the importance of music, joy, and community spirit, drawing both locals and tourists who come to partake in the unforgettable experience that Salvador's carnival is renowned for. The festivities promote a sense of peace, happiness, and freedom, with everyone invited to join in the celebration regardless of background, further solidifying Salvador's reputation as a cultural hub during this exuberant season.