The 2026 street carnival in São Paulo, promoted by Mayor Ricardo Nunes as 'the largest carnival in Brazil,' saw approximately 16.5 million participants across eight days featuring 627 different blocos. With performances from major Brazilian artists like Ivete Sangalo and Pabllo Vittar, the event showcased a mix of large and small neighborhood celebrations, highlighting the festive spirit throughout the city. However, attendees faced challenges such as insufficient chemical restrooms and overcrowding in certain areas, which raised concerns about public health and safety.

Despite these issues, the carnival was perceived as a safer event this year, with a reported 16% reduction in mobile phone thefts compared to the previous year. The increased visibility of law enforcement, including undercover and costumed police officers, contributed to this perception of safety. Carnival-goers noted the presence of more security measures, which may have alleviated some worries about personal safety during such a large-scale public gathering.

Overall, while the 2026 carnival was marked by many positive elements like increased security and high attendance, the shortcomings in sanitation and amenities suggest that there are areas for improvement in future events. Addressing these issues will be vital to maintaining the carnival's reputation and ensuring the safety and comfort of participants in subsequent years.