The Northeast of Brazil: The Beating Heart of Carnival

Por: @mashup.br

From trios elétricos to frevo-filled street parades, from parties on paradise islands to cultural celebrations spanning centuries, the Northeast offers an unforgettable Carnival experience for every kind of reveler.

Whether you love chasing after trios elétricos, immersing yourself in traditional street blocos, or enjoying a more alternative vibe, here are six incredible Carnival destinations in the Northeast that guarantee an unforgettable time.

For Those Who Love Trios Elétricos: Salvador (BA)

The land of axé couldn’t be left out! Salvador hosts Brazil’s biggest and most iconic Carnival, where trios elétricos parade through the Barra-Ondina and Campo Grande circuits, drawing massive crowds. The party never stops here, with stars like Ivete Sangalo, Bell Marques, and Léo Santana keeping the energy high.

Main Blocos and Events:

Camarote Salvador – VIP area with open bar and exclusive amenities.
Bloco Camaleão – Led by Bell Marques.
Bloco Olodum
Bloco Filhos de Gandhy
Bloco Timbalada
Bloco Largadinho

For a more alternative and roots Carnival: São Luís (MA)

Maranhão has one of the most unique festivals in Brazil, mixing Afro blocks, "crioula" drums and rhythms like reggae. The São Luís Carnival is perfect for those looking for a less commercial party that is more connected to Brazil's Afro-indigenous roots.

Blocos and Events:

Bloco Jegue Folia – One of the most fun parties in town.
Tambores de Crioula – A vibrant celebration of Afro-Maranhense culture.
Reggae na Litorânea – For those who want to mix the party with the sound of reggae radiolas.

For those who prefer frevo and maracatu: Recife and Olinda (PE)

If you're looking for a Carnival with tradition and authenticity, Recife and Olinda are your destination. Frevo, an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, sets the tone in the historic streets of Olinda, while Recife bursts into colors and culture, with giant blocks like Galo da Madrugada – the largest street block in the world.

Must-See Blocos and Parties:

Galo da Madrugada – The largest block in the world, parading on Carnival Saturday.
Bloco Eu Acho é Pouco – The famous red dragon of Olinda.
Noite dos Tambores Silenciosos – A moving maracatu performance at Pátio do Terço, in Recife.
O Homem da Meia Noite
Bloco dos Sujos // Bloco das Flores & Elefante de Olinda

Source: Pexels

For a beachy and quieter Carnival: Jericoacoara (CE)

If you're looking for a more relaxed Carnival, with your feet in the sand and turquoise blue waters, Jericoacoara is the right place. The village, known for its dunes and paradise lagoons, comes alive with beach parties, live music, and a perfect atmosphere for mixing revelry and relaxation.

Things to do:

Enjoy parties at sunset on Duna do Pôr do Sol.
Spontaneous parties on Praia Principal, bringing together locals and tourists.

Source: Bnews I Maragogipe Carnival

For a traditional and cultural experience: Maragogipe (BA)

Little known outside of Bahia, Maragogipe's Carnival is one of the most authentic in Brazil, with a strong influence from 19th-century Carnival festivities. The highlight here are the caretas, masked revelers who parade through the streets in colorful processions.

What to expect:

Bloco das Almas
Rhythms mixing samba de roda, marchinhas, and Afro-Bahian percussion.

Source: Matheus Costato/@macostato/Disclosure

For those who enjoy island parties: Ilha de Itamaracá (PE)

If the idea of a Carnival on a paradise island appeals to you, Itamaracá is the right place. The island, famous for its tranquil beaches and maracatu culture, offers a more laid-back revelry, far from the crowds.

Things to do:

Maracatu Nação Estrela Brilhante
Caboclinhos Blocks
Boat tours and parties in Coroa do Avião.

What's your Carnival style?

Whether it’s the axé rhythm in Salvador, the energetic frevo in Olinda, or the paradise beaches of Ceará, the Northeast has a Carnival for every style. Which one fits you best?

Por Rafaela Fornitani 8 de janeiro de 2025

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