Belo Horizonte celebrated its unique version of carnival with the Bloco da Bicicletinha, which took place on Thursday, February 12th. The event, known for its vibrant nighttime celebrations, saw many cyclists, or 'ciclofoliões,' adorned in colorful costumes and riding creatively decorated bicycles. The gathering commenced shortly after 8 PM on Avenida Carandaí in the Funcionários neighborhood, where participants enjoyed a pleasant evening ride through the tree-lined streets, devoid of rain. The night's theme, 'By bike to the future,' drew inspiration from the movie 'Back to the Future,' inviting attendees to envision new urban pathways as they merged carnival spirit with urban mobility.

A highlight of this year's edition was the introduction of the Bici Sound System Alegórico contest, aimed at recognizing the most creative cyclists. Participants were encouraged to decorate their bikes and connect them to a sound system tuned into the block's online radio. A prize of 500 reals was offered for the best decorated bicycle, with winners announced during the event's dispersal at Praça Rui Barbosa. This contest not only added a competitive edge to the festivities but also promoted creativity, encouraging participants to engage with the city in a novel and entertaining way.

The Bloco da Bicicletinha is a testament to how local cultural events can promote social engagement and community spirit while advocating for sustainable urban transport. By combining the joy of carnival with the enjoyment of cycling, this event highlights the importance of integrating mobility solutions into festive communal activities, setting a precedent for future events in urban centers across Brazil.