The Bloco Vassourão, a traditional carnival group made up of garbage collectors from the Olinda city hall, took to the streets early in the morning to perform a symbolic washing of the historic slopes of the city. The event took place on February 12, when participants gathered at the Mercado da Ribeira before making their way through key locations in the city, including the municipal building and ending at Praça de São Pedro. The procession was accompanied by the Evoé frevo orchestra, transforming what is normally a routine cleanup into a festive occasion.

Garbage collector Gilmar Travassos da Costa, who has been part of the team for five years, emphasized the importance of collaboration from revelers, urging them not to litter the streets. He remarked, "Trash should go in the trash, not on the ground," highlighting the responsibility of both workers and festival-goers in maintaining the city’s cleanliness during the celebrations. His colleague, Amauri, further advocated for the group’s role in ensuring that both locals and tourists could fully enjoy the carnival festivities, underscoring that their efforts aim to keep Olinda beautiful for everyone.

As Carnival draws near, events like the washing of the slopes serve not only to engage the community but also to set an example for environmental consciousness during major festivities. The vibrant connection between culture, tradition, and civic responsibility is put on display as Olinda prepares to welcome both its residents and visitors for an unforgettable celebration of Brazilian culture. The involvement of the garbage collectors in this symbolic act of cleanliness reinforces the blending of joy and responsibility that characterizes the spirit of Carnival.