The Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, commonly known as the Sambadrome, is a purpose-built parade area in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, designed specifically to host the annual samba school parades during the Carnival do Rio de Janeiro. Inaugurated in 1984 and designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer, the Sambadrome has become synonymous with the vibrant and extravagant celebrations of Brazilian culture.
The Sambadrome is 700 metres long and 13 metres wide, and can accommodate around 90,000 spectators. At the end of the parade route, participants celebrate and take off their costumes in Apotheosis Square.
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What happens at the Sambadrome Parade?
The Sambadrome parade performances are part of a fierce competition between Rio's samba schools. Each school selects a theme and creates elaborate floats, costumes, and musical compositions to present during their parade.
The performances are judged on various criteria, including the quality of the samba song (samba-enredo), the creativity and execution of the floats and costumes, the coherence of the theme, and the overall performance of the participants.
Who performs at the Sambadrome Parade?
In the Rio Carnival, samba schools compete in two main divisions: the Special Group and the Access Group (also known as Série Ouro or Gold Series). Here is the difference between the special group and the access group:
Special Group: The Special Group is the top-tier division, consisting of the best 12 samba schools in Rio de Janeiro. These elite schools perform on Sunday and Monday of Carnival week at the Sambadrome, showcasing elaborate floats, intricate costumes, and highly choreographed performances. Their performances are judged, and the school with the highest score is crowned Carnival Champion. However, the last-place school in the Special Group will be demoted to the Access Group for the following year.
Access Group: The Access Group, on the other hand, serves as the second-tier competition, featuring schools striving to earn a coveted spot in the Special Group. These parades take place on Friday and Saturday of Carnival week. The performances are judged similarly, and the winning school of the Access Group is promoted to the Special Group for the next year, replacing the demoted school.
Some of the most best samba schools in Rio de Janeiro include:
Estação Primeira de Mangueira: Founded in 1928, Mangueira is one of the oldest and most traditional samba schools, known for its long history and 21 championship titles (Instagram)
Portela: Holding the record for the most championship titles, with 22 wins, Portela is celebrated for its innovative contributions to samba and Carnival (Instagram)
Beija-Flor de Nilópolis: Recognized for its opulent and theatrical presentations, Beija-Flor has consistently been a top contender in the Carnival competitions, securing 15 championships. They were the Carnival Champion for 2025 (Instagram)
Acadêmicos do Grande Rio: Grande Rio has gained popularity for its bold themes and striking visual presentations. The school has won one championship title, securing its first-ever victory in 2022, and coming in 2nd place in 2025 with a story about the waters of Pará (Instagram)
Who was the Carnival Champion for 2025?
In the 2025 Rio Carnival, Beija-Flor de Nilópolis clinched its 15th championship title with a performance themed "Laíla de todos os santos, Laíla de todos os Sambas," honoring their late carnival director, Laíla.
Laíla, a pivotal figure in Beija-Flor's history, was renowned for his innovative contributions to samba and the Carnival arts. The tribute highlighted his deep-rooted religiosity, devotion to Xangô, and his influential role within and beyond Beija-Flor. The school's dedication to Laíla's legacy resonated deeply with audiences and judges, leading to their well-deserved victory.
Watch Beija-Flor's full 2025 parade in the video below:
Types of Sambadrome parade tickets
There are various types of tickets that offer different views, perks, and come at different prices accordingly:
Front Boxes (Frisas): Also known as Open Boxes, these seats are situated closest to the samba runway, offering an intimate and up-close view of the performances. Each box typically accommodates six people, providing a comfortable space to enjoy the parade.
Camarotes (Luxury Suites): The most expensive tickets. These covered, elevated suites offer a premium Carnival experience, combining excellent views with exclusive amenities such as buffets and private bars. Camarotes are ideal for those seeking comfort and a panoramic perspective of the parade.
Grandstands (Arquibancadas): These are the most affordable seating options, located higher up and providing a broad overview of the entire parade. Grandstands are open seating areas, so early arrival is recommended to secure preferred spots.
Allocated Chairs (Cadeiras Numeradas): Located near the end of the runway, these numbered seats offer a reserved spot with a good view of the final performances. This option is suitable for those who prefer assigned seating without the premium cost of front boxes or suites.
What is the best Sambadrome sector?
The Sambadrome is divided into sectors, each offering a unique viewing experience. Understanding the layout can help you choose the best option for your preferences:
Even-Numbered Sectors (2, 4, 6, 8, 10): These sectors are located on the right side of the Sambadrome when facing the parade's direction. They offer excellent views and are popular among locals and tourists alike.
The judges sit in Sector 6 - meaning the best performances happen in front of this sector.
Odd-Numbered Sectors (3, 5, 7, 11): Situated on the left side, these sectors also provide great vantage points.
Sector 7 offers some seats in a covered box, offering protection in case of rain.
Sector 9 – The Star Sector: Known as the tourist sector, Sector 9 has the best structure and services, including assigned seating and proximity to the transfer ramp, making it a favorite among international visitors.
Sectors 10 and 11: These sectors are great for their proximity to the drummers' section (bateria), providing an immersive auditory experience of the samba rhythms.
Sectors 12 and 13: Primarily consisting of Allocated Chairs, these sectors are located towards the end of the runway and offer a close-up view of the final moments of each school's performance.
How to Buy Tickets for the Sambadrome at Rio Carnival 2026
Tickets for the 2026 Rio Carnival can be purchased through Ticketmaster Brazil. It's advisable to buy tickets well in advance, as the Carnival attracts millions of visitors, and popular sectors sell out quickly. Prices vary depending on the sector and type of seating, so reviewing the options carefully before making a selection is recommended.
Additional Tips
Arrival Time: If you do not have an allocated seat, it's best to arrive early to secure a good spot. The parades typically start in the evening and continue into the early hours of the morning.
Where is the Sambadrome located in Rio: The Sambadrome is located in Cidade Nova neighborhood, near the Praca Onze and Central metro stations.
Safety: While the Sambadrome is generally safe, the area surrounding it is not. As with any night out at Carnival, do not bring valuables out with you. See my full post on how to pack your bag to go out during Carnival.
Transport: Make sure you know how to get to and from the Sambadrome by metro, as you cannot travel to the Sambadrome by Uber. The metro exit is right in front of the entrance to the Sambadrome and is a safe and easy way to get to the Sambadrome. When going home after the parade, if there is no metro station nearby your accommodation, take an Uber from your closest metro station to your accommodation and do not walk home late at night.
Attending the Rio Carnival at the Sambadrome is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a mesmerising display of culture, music, and dance. No matter which ticket or sector you choose, you are sure to have a memorable and immersive Carnival celebration in 2026.
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