When we think of partying, we usually picture a club. But in Rio, samba schools throw spectacular parties all year round.
There are several samba schools dotted around Rio, some being older and more popular than others. Leading up to Carnaval, the schools will host a bunch of events in preparation for the largest show in the world. These events include street rehearsals, school rehearsals, invitations of other schools, feijoada parties, and concerts.
I had the pleasure of experiencing a school rehearsal (ensaio) at one of my favorite schools, Salgueiro, that invited (convida) my other favorite school, Mangueira! If you’re into samba, costumes, drums, singing, and performances—this is the party experience for you. I’ve also gone to Mangueira’s school and had a similar experience.
Each of the schools have their own instagram pages that they regularly update with upcoming events. If you’d like to attend one of these, check out Salgueiro’s page for this year’s events. You’ll be partying all night into the morning. Seriously, I left at 5am and they were still going strong 😂. Their school is also beautiful with plenty of food and drinks available for sale. I went on my own and paid for my ticket at the door in cash (around 10USD).
You’ll be met with their iconic checkered ceiling and the phenomenal Furiosa bateria—drumming away as they give instruction to the crowd. Watch as samba dancers perform their routines, and the queen of drums (rainha de bateria) is met with the applause of the whole school. It’s an unexplainable energy that you can only experience for yourself. Go and enjoy!
