Cordão da Bola Preta makes its first appearance at Rio Praia on \(02/21\), Champions’ Saturday, with 40 minutes of marchinhas after the parades.
For the first time, Rio Praia welcomes Cordão da Bola Preta at the Sambadrome. The appearance happens on Champions’ Saturday, \(02/21\). Therefore, the venue prepares a standout finale for Carnival 2026.
The bloco enters right after the last samba school leaves the avenue. Next, Bola Preta takes center stage and leads the crowd into the box. The moment has been nicknamed “Arrastão” for its pull-in celebration.
“Arrastão” and a post-parade ball
For 40 minutes, Rio Praia turns into a Carnival ballroom. Classic marchinhas and a full-voice singalong set the tone. In this way, the party keeps going until the very end.
The idea extends the show beyond the parade itself. On the other hand, it preserves the street Carnival spirit inside the Sambadrome. As a result, the finale becomes interactive and crowd-driven.
Bola Preta’s legacy
Seen as Rio de Janeiro’s oldest bloco, Cordão da Bola Preta was founded in 1918. Over the decades, it became a symbol of Brazilian popular culture. Its black-and-white colors and marchinhas connect generations.
The repertoire features the anthem “Quem não chora, não mama,” widely known by fans. Meanwhile, the group’s history mirrors Carnival’s evolution, from bandstands to sound trucks. With that, Bola Preta grew into a massive street bloco downtown.
The bloco is also recognized as Historic, Cultural, and Intangible Heritage of the State of Rio de Janeiro. It is cited as a key remnant of the traditional cordões from the 20th century. Thus, its first appearance at the box carries strong symbolic value.
Lineup and venue features
Beyond Bola Preta’s debut, the box will host the Rodas de Samba project every night. The main shows are already scheduled. Names include Xande de Pilares \(02/13\) and Belo \(02/21\).
The lineup also brings Thiago Martins \(02/14\), Arlindinho and Thiago Soares \(02/15\), Pixote \(02/16\), and Tiee \(02/17\). In this way, Rio Praia expands the music experience throughout Carnival 2026. The concerts complement the energy on the avenue.
Rio Praia sits between sectors 8 and 10, with a view of the \(2^\circ\) drum-break area. The venue offers premium open bar and a buffet featuring Brazilian and Japanese cuisine. In addition, it includes exclusive transfer service, air-conditioned areas, and private restrooms.
Features also include DJs, a beauty area, abadá customization, a VIP area, a corporate lounge, and an official meeting point at Pestana Rio Atlântica in Copacabana. Finally, the box reinforces its focus on comfort and tradition. Bola Preta’s debut strengthens that position in 2026.
Service
Location: sectors 8 and 10 at Sapucaí, facing the \(2^\circ\) drum-break area
Official website: camaroteriopraia.com.br
Sales link: ingresso.camaroteriopraia.com.br
Sales desk: +55 (21) 99994-3632
Instagram: @camaroteriopraia