The first night of the Special Group at Marquês de Sapucaí in Rio de Janeiro commenced with a vibrant display of political sentiment, where the crowd chanted support for President Lula, reflecting his campaign slogan. The Acadêmicos de Niterói samba school dedicated their performance to Lula, showcasing his journey and success in a way that contrasted sharply with the portrayal of former president Jair Bolsonaro, depicted as 'Bozo' in a derisive manner even in a prison setting. Lula himself attended the parade, cheering alongside notable figures such as the first lady Janja and other political leaders.

The atmosphere was lively at the beginning, as Lula's slogan resonated throughout the venue, turning into a catchy refrain within the samba performance. The festive mood saw moments of appreciation for Lula, especially when a float depicting him as a child holding a star was met with applause. However, as the parade progressed, the initial excitement seemed to wane, and the audience's enthusiasm did not consistently mirror the early fervor, signaling a mixed reception of the performance.

Notable changes were also present in the performers’ line-up, with Janja initially expected to perform but replaced by singer Fafá de Belém. The event encapsulated the ongoing political polarization in Brazil, using the platform of the famed carnival to express both disdain for Bolsonaro and celebrate Lula, highlighting how cultural events intertwine with political narratives in Brazil's current landscape.