The streets of Belém erupted in color, music, and passion as the 2025 Carnival took over the city with an electrifying display of culture and tradition. This year’s spectacle stood out not only for its artistic brilliance but also for its strong environmental message, bringing the Amazon rainforest to center stage.
The parade reached an unforgettable climax when Quem São Eles and Bole Bole were declared co-champions after an intense and historic tie. Both schools delivered breathtaking performances, capturing the essence of Amazonian heritage, legends, and ecological preservation.
Já temos as campeãs do Grupo Especial do Carnaval de Belém! 🎭🔥 Parabéns à Quem São Eles e Bole Bole, que dividiram o primeiro lugar! 🏆🏆 E claro, um salve pra Boêmios da Vila Famosa (2º lugar) e Império Pedreirense (3º) que também deram um show na avenida! 🎶💃🏽… pic.twitter.com/mVh2YujWo5
— Helder Barbalho (@helderbarbalho) March 17, 2025
A Historic Tie That Electrified the Crowd
For the first time in 29 years, Quem São Eles reclaimed the championship, sharing the title with the three-time reigning champion, Bole Bole. Judges faced an impossible decision as both schools achieved identical scores across all evaluation criteria.
The grandstands at Aldeia Cabana vibrated with energy as thousands of revelers, dressed in extravagant costumes, brought the Amazon’s spirit to life through dance, music, and stunning visuals.
View this post on Instagram
- Quem São Eles’ Performance: The Awakening of the Forest told a mystical story about the Amazon’s survival through the union of ancient spirits, animals, and indigenous guardians.
- Bole Bole’s Spectacle: The school honored Amazonian ancestry, blending folklore, history, and a powerful call to action for conservation efforts.
The Amazon as the Star of the Show
Sustainability and culture blended seamlessly in this year’s theme. Samba schools delivered performances infused with symbolism, reminding spectators of the fragility of the rainforest and the urgency of preserving its ecosystem.
Key highlights from the parades included:
- Floats adorned with towering trees, jaguars, and mythical creatures symbolizing the Amazon’s rich biodiversity.
- Percussion sections echoing the sounds of nature, mixing traditional samba beats with rhythms inspired by indigenous music.
- Costumes crafted using eco-friendly materials, reinforcing the event’s commitment to sustainability.
Beyond the competition, cultural agents and environmental organizations used the festival as a platform to promote discussions on the upcoming COP 30 Climate Conference, set to take place in Belém.
A Night of Spectacle: Music, Dance, and Passion
在 Instagram 查看这篇帖子
The parade featured 12 wings, 4 massive floats, and over 1,500 performers for Quem São Eles, while Bole Bole’s procession delivered an equally mesmerizing show.
The carnival’s official theme song, composed by João Bosco Ferreira and Vicente de Paulo, was performed by Vando Souza, with 150 percussionists led by maestro Pedro Paulo. Spectators sang along as the rhythm of samba-enredo carried through the city’s streets.
Judging Categories
- Theme and Plot – Creativity and execution of the central narrative
- Percussion & Music – Synchronization, melody, and impact
- Costumes & Aesthetics – Design, symbolism, and craftsmanship
- Allegories & Floats – Visual storytelling and technical artistry
- Dance & Choreography – Precision, expression, and movement
- Harmony & Synchronization – Cohesion between dancers, musicians, and the theme
A Legacy of Tradition and Innovation
Belém Carnival 2025 was more than a competition. It showcased the power of samba as a cultural force, blending entertainment with a profound environmental message.
For Quem São Eles, the victory ended a 29-year drought, marking their long-awaited return to the top. Bole Bole, already a dominant force, secured their fourth championship in an unprecedented tie.
With COP 30 on the horizon, the celebration reinforced Belém’s role as a global stage for discussions on climate, heritage, and sustainability. As the city prepares for another year, the echoes of drums, songs, and environmental advocacy will remain long after the confetti settles.
Last Words
The 2026 edition promises even greater innovation, with organizers already discussing expanded participation, interactive experiences, and stronger links between carnival and environmental activism.
Rio de Janeiro may be the biggest stage for Carnival, but Belém proved it can put on a show that comes close. The passion of the performers, the stunning floats, and the connection to the Amazon made it a unique and unforgettable experience.
