On Saturday, February 14, 2026, Rio's Carnival will feature an intense day with 57 blocos parading across the city, marking a highlight in the official programming.
On February 14, 2026, the city of Rio de Janeiro will experience its most bustling day of street Carnival, featuring a total of 57 blocs, or 'blocos', parading across various neighborhoods from the city center to the southern zone. This day is expected to be the pinnacle of the official Carnival schedule, with events spread throughout the city. The famous Cordão da Bola Preta, founded in 1918, will lead the festivities, commencing early in the morning with a large turnout of revelers enjoying traditional Carnival music.
As the Cordão da Bola Preta takes to the central streets, it will draw hundreds of thousands of participants who gather for the exuberant festivities that begin at 7 AM, with the bloco set to depart at 9 AM. The iconic performance will occur in the Circuito Preta Gil, solidifying its status as a major attraction during the Carnival. Alongside this giant, multiple other blocks with various themes and musical styles will be taking place simultaneously, reflecting the vast and diverse culture of Rio's Carnival.
In addition to the Cordão da Bola Preta, other notable events include the Céu na Terra bloco in the Santa Teresa neighborhood, celebrated for its huge puppets and stilts, elaborate orchestral arrangements, and a unique fusion of traditional songs and Brazilian rhythms. Their gathering begins at 7 AM in Largo dos Guimarães, showcasing yet another facet of the vibrant Carnival celebrations that characterize Rio de Janeiro's festive season.
