The article presents a roundup of notable happenings in Rio de Janeiro on the first night of Carnival, emphasizing the tributes to figures like Ney and Lula, as well as showcasing Afro-Brazilian culture and the concept of 'Amazônia Negra'. The night featured various cultural expressions, amidst the celebratory atmosphere integral to the carnival festivities.

In a significant local incident, neighborhoods like Copacabana and Leme experienced a power outage, identified as a result of overloading by the local utility company Light. This outage raised concerns about the impact of inadequate infrastructure during one of the city’s most celebrated events, sparking discussions about the need for better public utility management during high-demand periods.

The political landscape also came into play with opposition voices criticizing the parade that honored Lula, suggesting potential legal action to contest the tribute. Meanwhile, Lula's wife, Janja, announced her withdrawal from participating in a parade at Sapucaí, citing concerns over potential persecution of her husband, which adds a layer of complexity to the ongoing intertwining of politics and public festivities in Brazil.