The period of celebration in Rio de Janeiro is a globally recognized event, marked by vibrant parades, street parties, and a general atmosphere of revelry. It is fundamentally linked to the liturgical calendar, specifically occurring in the days preceding the Christian observance of Lent. This timing dictates the precise dates each year.
Its significance lies in its role as a cultural expression, deeply rooted in Brazilian history and traditions. It provides economic benefits through tourism and the creative industries. Historically, the event evolved from earlier Portuguese traditions, blending European customs with African and Indigenous influences to become the spectacle recognized today.