The samba parades in Rio de Janeiro showcase the extensive cultural significance and community involvement of samba schools, where even the smallest groups field participants comparable to the inhabitants of small towns. Notably, guidelines for the parades in Rio recommend between 2,500 and 3,200 participants per school, while in São Paulo a minimum of 1,500 is set, indicating the grand scale of these events.

According to data from the 2022 Census, Brazil hosts 27 municipalities with fewer than 1,500 residents and 290 with under 2,500, illustrating how samba schools attract crowds that exceed the populations of many cities. The parades are not only a reflection of artistic expression and community spirit but also bring economic and social benefits as they engage large segments of society and celebrate Brazilian culture.

This year, Rio's samba parades will feature three nights of festivities with 12 schools participating, totaling over 35,500 individuals on the avenue. The event highlights the importance of samba as a unifying force in Brazilian culture, capable of drawing massive crowds and showcasing the vibrancy of Brazilian heritage.