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By Rio de Janeiro Carnival 2025 promises to delight the world with unforgettable parades at the Marquês de Sapucaí Sambadrome. The samba schools are the heart of this grand spectacle, and each of them dedicates itself to presenting captivating themes, dazzling costumes and floats that defy the imagination.
If you’re planning to attend the parades, it’s essential to know the participating samba schools, their themes for this year, and what to expect from their performances. In this post, we highlight the best samba schools for Carnival 2025 and reveal some of the main expectations for the parades.
The Most Anticipated Samba Schools of 2025
The Special Group brings together the best samba schools in Rio de Janeiro, responsible for transforming Sapucaí into a true open-air theater. Each school works throughout the year to prepare a unique and surprising show. Check out some of the most anticipated schools this year:
1. Hummingbird of Nilópolis
Traditionally recognized for the grandeur of its parades, Beija-Flor is one of the favorites of the public and judges. For 2025, the school will bring the theme “Brazil: A Temple of Resistance”, addressing the cultural richness and strength of the Brazilian people throughout history. Expect imposing allegories and dazzling costumes that capture the essence of the theme.
2. Portela
Portela, holder of the largest number of titles in the history of Rio's Carnival, promises an exciting parade with the theme “In the Waters of Time, the Legend is Renewed”. The school will delve into Brazilian myths and legends, highlighting the importance of preserving traditions. A poetic and visually stunning parade is expected.
3. Hose
With its brand of irreverence and creativity, Mangueira arrives in 2025 with the plot “The Strength of Roots”, which celebrates African influences in Brazilian culture. The school promises a show of colors, rhythms and powerful messages about ancestry and resistance.
4. Independent Youth of Father Miguel
Mocidade, always innovative, will take the theme to Sapucaí “Echoes of the Amazon”, an alert for the preservation of the forest and the celebration of indigenous communities. With futuristic allegories and a contagious samba-enredo, the school hopes to win over the public and the judges.
5. Willow
With the plot “The Rhythm that Unites People”, Salgueiro will explore music as a universal language, highlighting its ability to unite different cultures. The school promises a vibrant and contagious parade, with costumes that symbolize the world's musical diversity.
6. United from Tijuca
Unidos da Tijuca, known for its technological boldness, will bring the theme “On the Trail of Dreams”, a parade that promises to enchant with special effects and impressive scenography. The school is determined to innovate once again and secure its place among the best.
Expectations for the 2025 Parades
The Special Group samba schools have a tradition of exceeding expectations each year, and 2025 will be no different. The chosen themes reflect a deep connection to social, cultural and environmental issues, ensuring parades that are not only visually striking, but also full of meaning.
This year's sambas are already being considered some of the best of the decade, with striking melodies and lyrics that promise to move the hearts of the audience. In addition, carnival organizers are betting on technological innovations, such as interactive lighting and floats with surprising movements.
How to Watch the Champions Parade?
The champions' parade, held on the Saturday following Carnival, brings together the six best samba schools from the Special Group. It is an unmissable opportunity for those who want to experience the excitement of Sapucaí at its best, with the most praised performances of the season.
In addition to being a more compact show, the champions' parade has tickets that tend to sell out quickly due to its popularity. To guarantee your spot and watch the best samba schools of 2025, it is essential to plan in advance.
Secure Your Tickets Now
Whether it’s the main parades or the champions’ parade, experiencing Rio’s Carnival is a unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to witness the talent and dedication of the world’s best samba schools.
Don't miss the champions' parade! Get your tickets now and experience the magic of Carnival 2025 at Sapucaí.
