Meeting: 19:00 at Rio & Learn
Cost: R$ 7,90 (metro)
Picture this: the electrifying rhythm of samba drums filling the air, dazzling costumes shimmering under the Sambadrome lights, and an infectious energy that makes your heart race. Have you ever experienced Carnival in Rio de Janeiro? What about the samba school rehearsals? Do you know what the atmosphere is like? With RioLIVE!, you’ll get a taste of this incredible celebration. Let’s dive into what makes this experience unforgettable and how you can join us for this thrilling cultural adventure.
Rio Carnival rehearsals, also known as technical rehearsals, are where samba schools fine-tune their performances for the big event. These free-to-attend gatherings at the iconic Sambadrome offer a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry and passion that define Carnival. It’s more than just a rehearsal—it’s a celebration in its own right, filled with music, dance, and community spirit. Learn more about what a Samba School is here!
The Carnival Parades at the Sambadrome are the highlight of the festivities. Throughout the avenue, samba schools showcase what they have been preparing all year and what they will perform during the grand event.
Before the main parade, these schools rehearse at the Sambadrome to perfect every detail. The best part? You can watch them practice before the official event! At the rehearsals, you’ll learn the official songs, see some of the stunning costumes, and witness the choreography that will take center stage. Samba schools are judged on many aspects of their performance, with choreography being one of the most crucial elements.
With RioLIVE!, you’ll not only witness the rehearsals but also truly immerse yourself in the experience. Here’s why it’s a must-do:
Sing along with dedicated samba school supporters and learn the lyrics of the samba-enredo. Dancing and singing together will make you feel like part of the parade even before it begins. Listen to all the 2026 samba-enredo Carnival songs here to get ready!
These rehearsals are more than just practice sessions—they’re a chance for samba schools to test sound, lighting, and choreography. Seeing their dedication up close is truly inspiring.
Get to know the vibrant community that brings Carnival to life. From meeting passionate samba fans to admiring intricate costume details, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Brazilian culture.
Even though the technical rehearsals remain free, LIESA/Rio Carnaval introduced a digital ticket (QR Code) system for the 2026 season to help control crowd capacity and improve safety and comfort inside the Sambadrome. In practice, you may need to get a free QR Code online (usually 1 ticket per person per rehearsal day, using CPF or passport number, for grandstands (arquibancada) or frisa) by using the Rio Carnaval App available for Android and iPhone.
No QR code? According to the updated “hybrid” model, people can also enter through turnstiles (catracas) while there is still space available in each sector. Once a sector reaches maximum capacity, it can be temporarily closed and you may need to wait or move to another sector.
The energy at the Sambadrome is contagious. Imagine drums pounding, flags waving, and crowds cheering as samba schools march with pride. It’s a sensory explosion that will leave you in awe. Some people say that attending a rehearsal is enough, but trust us—after experiencing it, you’ll be even more excited to witness the main Carnival event!
| Date | Time | Samba School |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, January 30th | 09:00 PM | Acadêmicos de Niterói |
| 10:30 PM | Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel | |
| 00:00 AM | Estação Primeira de Mangueira | |
| 01:30 AM | Unidos da Tijuca | |
| Saturday, January 31st | 06:00 PM | Escolas de Samba Mirins |
| 08:00 PM | Unidos de Vila Isabel | |
| 09:30 PM | Acadêmicos do Salgueiro | |
| 11:00 PM | Paraíso do Tuiuti | |
| 00:30 AM | Portela | |
| Sunday, February 1st | 05:30 PM | Escolas de Samba Mirins |
| 07:00 PM | Unidos do Viradouro | |
| 08:30 PM | Imperatriz Leopoldinense | |
| 10:00 PM | Acadêmicos do Grande Rio | |
| 11:30 PM | Beija-Flor de Nilópolis |
| Date | Time | Samba School |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, February 6th | 09:00 PM | Acadêmicos de Niterói |
| 10:30 PM | Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel | |
| 12:00 AM | Estação Primeira de Mangueira | |
| 01:30 AM | Unidos da Tijuca | |
| Saturday, February 7th | 06:00 PM | Lavagem da Passarela (Sambadrome Washing) |
| 08:00 PM | Unidos de Vila Isabel | |
| 09:30 PM | Acadêmicos do Salgueiro | |
| 11:00 PM | Paraíso do Tuiuti | |
| 00:30 AM | Portela | |
| Sunday, February 8th | 06:00 PM | Escolas de Samba Mirins |
| 07:00 PM | Unidos do Viradouro | |
| 08:30 PM | Imperatriz Leopoldinense | |
| 10:00 PM | Acadêmicos do Grande Rio | |
| 11:30 AM | Beija-Flor de Nilópolis |
Before heading to the Sambadrome, join our RioLIVE! Samba class, where we’ll teach you basic samba steps so you can join in the dancing fun. And if you want to level up your skills, you can sign up for our Samba Classes Weeks. Don’t worry if you have two left feet—it’s all about enjoying the moment!
Capture the essence of Carnival through your lens. The rehearsals are full of vibrant colors, joyful expressions, and dynamic movements—perfect for photos you’ll treasure forever.
With RioLIVE!, you’ll learn fascinating facts about the history of samba schools and the significance of Carnival. Our guides will share stories that bring the experience to life.
Did you know that samba schools also hold rehearsals at their quadras (practice halls)? These events are more intimate but just as lively, offering a closer look at the samba community. Here’s what you can expect:
Check out the RioLIVE! Samba School visit in our RioLIVE! Calendar for your favorite samba school and make time to visit their quadra for an unforgettable experience.
Rio Carnival rehearsals are a gateway to the heart and soul of Brazilian culture. With RioLIVE!, you’re not just a spectator; you’re a part of the story. So, pack your dancing shoes, grab your camera, and join us for an unforgettable adventure at the Sambadrome.
Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? With Rio & Learn, you’ll experience it up close. It’s the perfect warm-up and an incredible way to kick off the carioca Carnival. Come and join us for this spectacular event!
See the links below and take a look at our last Samba School Rehearsals in Rio de Janeiro:
| January 2026 | February 2025 | February 2025 | |
| January 2025 | February 2019 | February 2019 | February 2017 |
| January 2016 | February 2014 | February 2014 | February 2014 |
Online Academic Coordinator at Rio & Learn Portuguese School.
Experienced educational coordinator and teacher since 2007, adept in curriculum development, creating physical and digital educational materials, and leveraging online platforms to enhance learning outcomes
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3 Responses
I am staring to take class at Rio and Learn in Feb 24th. But I am very interesting to join Rio Carnival Rehearsal. Can I join??
Yes Yuko you are more than welcome to come at this activity 🙂
So beautiful! Such a great experience! One day I will see it , too. A great great hope. 🙂