Copacabana Palace reveals “.Br” as the 2026 Copa Ball theme, celebrating Brazilian identity in an immersive, multisensory carnival night.
Carnival gala celebrates Brazilian identity
The iconic Carnival Ball at Copacabana Palace will celebrate “Brasilidade” in 2026 with the theme “.Br”. The concept highlights the complex essence of Brazilian identity in its many forms, beyond clichés. Guests are invited to dive into a cultural journey across the country.
For the fourth consecutive year, creative director Gustavo Barchilon signs the artistic direction of the Copa Ball. His challenge is to portray Brazil’s diversity in a single night with sophistication and modern flair. The theme also connects directly with the hotel’s new annex, currently undergoing a major renovation.
The renewed wing will enhance a more contemporary and refined Copa experience. Thus, architecture, scenography and storytelling align to spotlight Brazil in a new light. Tradition and innovation meet in one of Rio’s most emblematic parties.
Themed rooms inspired by Brazilian culture
The ballrooms of Copacabana Palace will embody art, nature, memory, music, spirituality and pleasure. Décor by Daniel Cruz promises a truly sensorial experience in each space. Every room will tell stories and contrasts that shape Brazilian culture.
One of the rooms will highlight Brazil’s environmental crisis. The space contrasts the country’s status as the world’s most biodiverse nation with the threat of extinction. Prints of endangered animals will cover mirrored walls, prompting reflection among guests.
Another environment will pay tribute to the 130th anniversary of the Teatro Amazonas, a symbol of opulence in northern Brazil. The homage creates a bridge between Manaus’ landmark theater and the charm of Copacabana Palace. In this way, the ball celebrates cultural icons from different regions.
Indigenous roots, faith and flavors on show
Indigenous roots and Brazil’s connection to the land will be represented in a room inspired by the opera “O Guarani”, which opened Teatro Amazonas. Elements from Indigenous tribes evoke the figure of a “guardian” of the land. Ancestry and belonging are placed at the center of the scene.
The plurality of Brazilian rhythms will appear in a space dedicated to national music. There, diverse musical roots meet in a single environment. In the Golden Room, Brazilian faith will be translated into charms and amulets that symbolize spirituality and popular belief.
The hotel terrace will be devoted to the flavors that shape Brazilian identity. The banana will represent the sweetness of tropicalism, while chili pepper expresses the intensity and strength of the Brazilian palate. Together, these elements build a narrative of the country through taste and memory.
Date, dress code and ticket information
The Copa Ball “.Br” will take place on 14 February 2026 at Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, in Rio de Janeiro. The event runs from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., in a grand carnival gala format. The dress code is black tie or luxury costume.
Tickets start at R$ 3,750.00, with sales through Sympla. The hotel is located at Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana, 327, one of Rio’s most famous addresses. Thus, the Copa Ball once again reinforces its status as a landmark of luxury carnival.
About Belmond and the art of slow luxury
Belmond was born from a passion for connecting discerning travelers with the world’s most extraordinary properties, routes and journeys. Its portfolio spans hotels, trains, river cruises and safari lodges. The brand’s Slow Luxury philosophy invites guests to embrace a gentler travel rhythm.
With more than 45 years of heritage, starting with the acquisition of Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, Belmond has grown into a global collection of 44 properties across 25 countries and territories. Exceptional destinations linked by legendary journeys are at the heart of the brand. The way you travel becomes as meaningful as the place you reach.
A pioneer of slow travel, Belmond has operated the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express since 1982. Over the decades, the company has added untouched seaside resorts such as Maroma on the Riviera Maya, historic retreats like Villa San Michele near Florence, urban icons such as Copacabana Palace in Rio, and gateways to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hotel das Cataratas in Brazil’s Iguaçu National Park.
As a guardian of iconic properties, Belmond is committed to preserving the past while building a new legacy. Working alongside local communities, regional talents and renowned chefs, designers and artists, the brand nurtures the timeless art of travel. Since 2019, Belmond has been part of LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton), the world’s leading luxury group.
