Although Brazil is a relatively small country, it is home to a diverse population. Since it is a World Heritage Site and a major economic center, it is also a great place to learn more about the population, customs and culture of Brazil. An important branch of the Brazilian culture is the Brazilian Carnival. The Carnival is a religious festival that reflects the incorporate many aspects of socialized humanism. It is an opportunity to wear masks and be in the company of loved ones, as well as to join in the party that happens before midnight. Many people will be Orthodox Christian during their rituals, while others will include pagan and spiritual elements. There are two basic Carnival periods. Muledo, in Bahia, starts in late January and lasts about two weeks. During this time, there will be parades, celebratory parties and other events organized by the government. During this time, people can experience the Carnival in Brazil's largest city, which serves as a monument to the dead, Mundo Maya.
One of the most important yearly events in Brazil is Carnaval. Unlike in many other countries, the general public is invited to attend. There will be a variety of parties, ceremonies and celebrations and a great deal of food. Because Brazil is a multicultural and coastal country, the Carnival offers a great opportunity to experience the many ethnic influences. Rio is the best place to attend Carnival and each year the city's streets and squares are filled with people from all races.
In Rio, the streets are filled with players in the Samba schools and choreographed samba dances are observed by tourists. One of the world's greatest Samba schools, Florianopolis, is found in the hills of Rio. Located on the outskirts of Rio is the ancient complex of Umbra, also known as theuca- Umbra, also known as the secret garden. Theuca- Umbra has Umbrian natives dancing and singing for spectators in a ritual known as the orca, which takes place before the holy waters are placed in the clay pool in which the ceremonies take place.
Brazilian Carnival Customs
Raneously celebrated street parties, Inglewood doors (giralda), parades and costumed samba dancers are all part of the Carnival experience. The Carnival is not for everyone and it is to be taken with a grain of salt. No matter how you view the Carnival, it is as much about the parties and celebrations as it is about the dance and music.
For the partygoer and the party, the nightlife during Carnival in Rio de Janeiro is non-stop. While the preparations for the samba-school competition start and top most, preparations do not finish until the last detail. By the last minute, more than 2000 people are parading in the streets and hundreds of people are on the decks of the floating bars.The so-called plankadais small boat dance is among the most well-known traditions of the Rio Carnival and takes place in the regression area between Copacabana and Ipanema. The beat is groovy and the tall dancers enjoy each other's company.
For more than a century, the Rio Carnival has been held January 10 through January 20. This year the processions are scheduled to begin on January 27. In the year 2007, the carnival musical program will be overhauled and additional security measures are to be enforced.
