Cidade do Samba

Rio Carnival is a once-a-year spectacular, but visitors can experience the glitz and glamour of the carnival parades year-round at this space dedicated to all things samba. The intricate carnival floats, spangly costumes and fleet-footed samba dancers are all present and correct, and spectators can also enjoy live samba music and traditional Brazilian food and drink. The vast space is divided into separate tents for each of the major Rio samba schools, and also hosts regular nocturnal dance events with live bands and DJs - the main musical motif being, naturally, samba. You don't need to be as snake-hipped as the locals to try a few samba moves, either. As a foreigner, any attempt you make at perfecting the Brazilian national dance will be met with good humor.