In fact, it is a few weeks before carnaval that the best parties, the most animated group rehearsals, the competition for the election of Carnaval King and Queen, the samba shows that open the Terreirão (see entry below), the final rehearsals at the samba schools and the costume exhibitions take place. It is also then that the information about where and how to join a samba school for the official parade and about the days and times of the best bands are communicated through the grapevine.

Bands and Groups
Before and during carnaval the cariocas' greatest entertainment is to join the bands and parading groups when they start their rehearsals that have become the highest moments in the pre-carnaval period, the great summer festivities in Rio.

Terreirão do Samba
Open space that resuscitates the atmosphere of Praça Onze, square in the city center, cradle of the samba. It is usually inaugurated before carnaval, functioning at full steam through the three nights of the festivity. Consecutive shows of Brazilian popular music and samba take place on an imposing stage. Kiosks sell food and cold beer.

Samba School Rehearsals       These rehearsals are the best introduction to the authentic samba. The moment the first pulsating sounds from the percussion instruments of a samba school are heard, one's whole body responds and the feet follow the rhythm. All samba schools have a rehearsal yard or hall, generally used on weekends. There people dance and learn the samba of the school that will be presented at the parade. It is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience. There are also dress rehearsal at the Passarela do Samba, a good opportunity to enjoy part of the great festivity. Watching the samba schools parade is living carnaval itself. It means bouncing about, singing the lyrics of the sambas, supporting the schools, vibrating with the exciting atmosphere. For one hour and twenty minutes each school exhibits the beautiful creativity of local artisans, in a show of vitality, brilliance and movement, product of the community's hard work throughout the year. Groups of helpers are organized and, in the huge sheds in the Center, work does not stop. For those who take part in the whole process, the samba school is like a religion and every year the ritual of joy is dazzling.