Carnival in March

Carnival happens in February or March, depending on Easter. The official dates for 2026 are February 13-17, but the party starts weeks earlier with pre-Carnival blocos. Here's the insider schedule: arrive the weekend before official Carnival for the best neighborhood blocos with fewer tourists. Saturday and Sunday of official Carnival weekend are absolute madness — two million people in the streets. Monday and Tuesday are slightly more manageable but still packed. The weather's hot and humid, usually around 85°F with afternoon thunderstorms. Bring a rain poncho, not an umbrella — you'll lose it in the crowds. Book accommodations at least six months ahead. Prices triple during Carnival week, and decent places sell out by November.