The opening night of the Special Group parades at Sapucaí highlighted the rich cultures of Brazil, specifically honoring the states of Rio Grande do Sul and Amapá while featuring performances from notable samba schools such as Mangueira, Portela, Imperatriz Leopoldinense, and the debuting Acadêmicos de Niterói. The Acadêmicos de Niterói paid homage to President Lula, stirring controversy prior to the event due to claims from opposition parties who argued that the parade served as premature electoral propaganda for the president.

Leading up to the parade, the Acadêmicos de Niterói faced significant legal challenges, with over ten actions filed against them in justice courts and the Federal Court of Auditors. Despite these challenges, the Superior Electoral Court ultimately denied a request for a temporary injunction that sought to prevent their parade from taking place. However, the court also cautioned that actions during the festivities could potentially be classified as electoral crimes, prompting the federal government to issue guidelines to authorities to avoid any political manifestations that could be construed as campaigning.

As the parades unfolded, there was a palpable tension surrounding the implications of political themes in such a cultural showcase. The government's advisory aimed to maintain the integrity of the celebrations while navigating the political landscape, reflecting a complex interplay between cultural expression and electoral norms in Brazilian society during this festive season.