The Beija-Flor samba school has been crowned the winner of Rio de Janeiro’s celebrated carnival parade competition on March 6, 2025. Thousands gathered at the Sambadrome arena to witness the performances of the top samba schools, with Beija-Flor securing its 15th title, narrowly beating Grande Rio in the competition.
- Beija-Flor wins Rio Carnival for the 15th time.
- Tribute to late director Luiz Fernando Ribeiro.
- Grande Rio finishes second in competition.
- Mocidade features giant puppet and futuristic costumes.
- Portela honors musician Milton Nascimento.
- Unidos de Padre Miguel ranks last, relegated.
The Rio de Janeiro carnival is a vibrant celebration that showcases the artistry and culture of samba schools. This year, the competition featured 12 top schools, each presenting elaborate parades filled with music, dance, and intricate costumes. The performances were evaluated by 40 judges across ten categories, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of each school’s artistry and creativity.
Beija-Flor’s performance was particularly poignant, serving as a tribute to its late director, Luiz Fernando Ribeiro do Carmo, known as Laíla, who passed away from Covid-19 in June 2021. The parade included impressive floats, pyrotechnic displays, and dancers dressed as devils, creating a spectacle that captivated the audience.
- Beija-Flor: 1st place, 15th title.
- Grande Rio: 2nd place, closely contested.
- Imperatriz: 3rd place, featured gold and white skulls.
- Portela: Honored musician Milton Nascimento.
- Unidos de Padre Miguel: Last place, relegated from top tier.
Other notable performances included Paraíso do Tuiuti, known for its dancers in vibrant feathers, and Mocidade, which showcased a giant puppet alongside futuristic costumes inspired by its theme song. The diversity of themes and costumes highlighted the creativity and cultural significance of the carnival, making it a memorable event for participants and spectators alike.
This year’s Rio carnival showcased the rich traditions of samba while honoring the legacy of influential figures in the community. Beija-Flor’s victory underscores its prominence in the samba scene, continuing a legacy of excellence and creativity in Brazilian culture.
