On December 8, the city of Óbidos in western Pará was alive with festivities as the Bloco das Virgens conducted the final pre-Carnapauxis celebration, an event that involves carnival blocks parading from neighborhoods to the Plaza da Cultura in the city center, temporarily named "Fobodrómo." This day was not only a celebration but also capped off five Sundays dedicated to building momentum for the official presentations of the seven carnival blocks scheduled from February 11 to 17, 2026.

The celebration attracted a significant number of visitors from surrounding municipalities, showcasing the growing appeal of this regional carnival event. The Bloco das Virgens, known for its playful irreverence in which men dress as women and vice versa, launched its theme for the 2026 festival: "As virgens rumo à copa," which translates to "The Virgins heading to the Cup," referencing the upcoming world football tournament. This creative theme ties the local carnival spirit to the broader cultural engagement with sports, highlighting the interconnectedness of local festivities and national events.

As Óbidos transitions into the Carnapauxis festival, local cultural expressions like those demonstrated by the Bloco das Virgens play a crucial role in not only preserving tradition but also in enhancing local tourism and community participation. The city prepares for a period where both locals and tourists will engage in vibrant celebrations, showcasing the cultural richness of the region and setting the stage for potential economic benefits through increased visitor numbers and engagement.