Brazil: Carnival celebrations in Rio de Janeiro March 1-9

Event

Rio de Janeiro will hold carnival celebrations from March 1-9, with the opening ceremony scheduled to start in the evening hours (local time) on Friday, March 1. A parade will be held later that night starting at 20:00. Many of the main events will be held in or around the Sambódromo, Ipanema, and Copacabana areas of the city. Major transportation disruptions (e.g. road closures, traffic congestion) are to be expected; petty crime rates will also likely rise during the festivities (e.g. due to excessive alcohol consumption, crowded conditions, etc.). An estimated 6 million people, including 1.5 million foreign tourists, are expected to participate in the celebrations. 

Advice

Due to high crime rates in Rio de Janeiro - and throughout Brazil more generally - individuals should remain vigilant at all times, report any suspicious behavior to relevant authorities, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Conceal conspicuous signs of wealth to avoid attracting the attention of would-be thieves. Note that criminals are often armed and never offer resistance in the event of a mugging.