Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2024 Dates

The **Rio Carnival** is held annually during the **four days before Ash Wednesday**.

• 2024 Dates: **Friday, Feb 9 – Tuesday, Feb 13** (Samba Parade nights: Sun Feb 11 & Mon Feb 12 at Sambadrome).
• 2025 Dates: Feb 28 – Mar 4.
• 2026 Dates: Feb 13 – Feb 17.

Key Events:

• Sambadrome Parades: Top samba schools compete (ticketed; book months ahead).
• Blocos (Street Parties): 500+ free parades citywide (start weeks before; peak Carnival week).
• Balls: Scala Rio (Gala), Copacabana Palace (Black Tie), LGBTQ+ balls.

Ash Wednesday 2024 = Feb 14. Carnival always ends 46 days before Easter.