Carnival (Carnaval) is a festival that marks the "farewell of the meat," (in Portuguese, adeus a carne) and it was first celebrated after a period of abstinence and fasting.
Carnival usually lasts 3 days, but it can be prolonged, leading up to "Ash Wednesday" (in Portuguese, quarta de cinzas). It does not have a fixed day, because it varies depending on the annual calendar, but occurs 47 days before Easter.
The preparation of the party is meticulous and might take up months to organize details. Every state has it's own tradition according to their own customs, such as different foods, celebrations, music festivals, and entertainments.
The tremendous celebration started in Rome over centuries ago, marked by huge parties; where they are, drink, and celebrated a pursuit of happiness. All activities and business were suspected and slaves gained temporary freedom to do whatever they pursue. Moral restrictions were also diminished.
In the Renascence period, the parties were incorporated with rich costumes, boats, and masquerade themes.
People in Brazil still follow the tradition, and dress to impress with beautiful ornaments and different colors.
Escolas de Samba (in English, samba schools) takes a big role in the big festival, characterized by samba competitions in public shows.
Each samba school represent a plot, accompanied with a drum, where hundred of even thousand dancers walk in a parade and show off their skills. Beautiful scenery and sculptures are also to be expected.
Rio de Janeiro holds the largest Carnival in the world, according to the Guinness Book, with estimated 2 million people celebrating the festival per day.
If you ever want to party, go to Brazil! Let the celebration begin!
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