This Friday, February 13, marks the opening of the Carnival weekend in Rio de Janeiro with the Bloco das Carmelitas leading the festivities. Part of the street Carnival tradition, the day draws significant attention as 20 carnival groups, known as 'blocos', parade through various locations in the city. As the prelude to the busiest Carnival day on Saturday with 57 expected blocs, Friday’s celebrations set an energetic tone for the weekend ahead.

The Bloco das Carmelitas, created in the 1990s, is rooted in a humorous legend about a nun who allegedly jumped over the convent wall to join the fun, making it a unique and recurring story that has become emblematic of this particular bloco. Known for its focus on traditional Brazilian marchinhas, the event also symbolizes irreverence and community spirit that characterizes the street Carnival scene in Rio. This story has solidified Carmelitas as an icon of the Rio Carnival, connecting various generations of participants.

As the parade unfolds, the atmosphere in Santa Teresa is transformed, drawing in a mix of long-time residents, artists, tourists, and revelers who dance through the narrow streets. This blend of community and celebration not only highlights the enduring charm of the neighborhood but also showcases the cultural significance of the Carnival, which serves as an annual unifier for the diverse population in Rio de Janeiro. The weekend's events celebrate both tradition and the shared joy of Carnival festivities, reflecting Brazil’s rich cultural heritage.