São Paulo Carnival 2025 – Best Blocos, Parade Routes, Safety Tips, and More

Get ready for the biggest party of the year! São Paulo Carnival 2025 is bringing hundreds of blocos, thousands of people, and non-stop music to the streets. Whether you love samba, funk, rock, or even Bollywood hits, there is a bloco for you.

With 767 registered blocos and over 800 parades, the city will be filled with energy. Some blocos are massive and packed, while others are small and local. Some have live bands, some blast DJ sets, and some focus on traditional Carnival rhythms.

This guide has everything you need to know: dates, locations, music styles, transport tips, safety advice, and more.

How Big is São Paulo Carnival 2025?

The 2025 edition is set to be the biggest in history, with 767 registered blocos and over 800 parades expected to fill the streets with energy.

The city will welcome millions of people, including locals and tourists, all joining in for days of non-stop celebration.

Why 2025 Will Be the Biggest Carnival Yet

The City Hall has confirmed that more blocos than ever will hit the streets, breaking all previous records.

With bigger crowds, more music styles, and a growing international reputation, São Paulo is proving that its Carnival is just as exciting as the one in Rio.

It actually holds the Guinness World Record as the largest street festival in the world.

Some blocos will attract hundreds of thousands of people, especially the most famous ones, while smaller neighborhood blocos will keep things more relaxed for those who prefer a local vibe.

The Most Popular Blocos That Draw Huge Crowds

How Many People Celebrate in São Paulo?

São Paulo Carnival is expected to bring millions of people to the streets. In 2024, over 15 million revelers joined the party, and 2025 is expected to surpass that number.

The biggest blocos can easily gather over one million people, transforming major streets into a sea of music, colors, and dancing.

Where to Find the Best Blocos in São Paulo

São Paulo is a huge city, and Carnival spreads across every region. Some blocos take over major avenues, while others stick to smaller streets in local neighborhoods. No matter where you are, there is a party happening nearby.

Best Blocos by Zone

The city is divided into five main areas for Carnival: West, East, Central, South, and North Zones. Each one offers a different experience, from massive parades to hidden gems with smaller crowds.

1. West Zone – Big Crowds, Trendy Vibes

This area is home to some of the most famous blocos in São Paulo. Expect huge crowds, live performances, and a mix of samba, rock, and pop music.

2. East Zone – Local Blocos and Traditional Carnival

This area has a mix of traditional Carnival rhythms and smaller neighborhood blocos. Many blocos here focus on marchinhas (old-school Carnival songs) and regional music styles.

• O Pinto do Visconde (Bloco da CUT) – A historic bloco that celebrates Carnival traditions with lively music.

• Garoterror – A high-energy bloco known for its mix of pop and funk music.

• Afoxé Omí Aiye – A bloco that highlights Afro-Brazilian rhythms and traditions.

3. Central Zone – The Heart of Carnival

This is where some of the biggest parades happen, attracting both tourists and locals. Expect huge crowds, famous blocos, and lots of energy.

• Tarado Ni Você – A tribute to Caetano Veloso, blending Carnival music with MPB classics.

• Carnablitz – A party with an open bar, electronic beats, and funk music.
• Bollywood – A unique bloco that mixes Bollywood music with Carnival rhythms.

4. South Zone – Iconic Locations and Large Parades

The South Zone hosts some of the most famous blocos, with parades happening near Ibirapuera Park and other major landmarks.

• Monobloco – A massive, well-organized bloco that mixes samba with pop hits.
• Bloco Bem Sertanejo with Michel Teló – A sertanejo-themed Carnival party, featuring live country music.

• Pleasing the Greeks – A fun bloco that plays a mix of pop, funk, and axé.

5. North Zone – Community Blocos and Classic Carnival Fun

This area is perfect for those who want a local, less touristy Carnival experience. Many blocos here keep the traditional Carnival spirit alive.

How to Pick the Right Bloco for You

• Love massive crowds? Head to Monobloco, Tarado Ni Você, or Casa Comigo.
• Prefer smaller, traditional blocos? Check out O Pinto do Visconde or Bloco Urubó.
• Want something unique? Try Bollywood or Bloco Ritaleena.
• Looking for sertanejo or rock? Bloco Bem Sertanejo and Bloco Ritaleena are great choices.
• Bringing kids? Look for family-friendly blocos like Bloquinho de Carnaval.

Music Styles – Find the Right Bloco for You

Some blocos stick to traditional Carnival rhythms, while others mix in rock, funk, sertanejo, and even international hits.

Samba and Marchinhas – The Heart of Carnival

Samba is the soul of Brazilian Carnival, and São Paulo has plenty of blocos keeping this tradition alive. Marchinhas, the classic upbeat Carnival songs, also play a big role.

• Monobloco – One of the biggest blocos, combining samba with pop music.
• Bloco Pirajá – A traditional samba parade with a lively crowd.
• Bantantã Carnival – A bloco that mixes samba with classic marchinhas.

Axé and Brazilian Pop – High-Energy Party Vibes

Axé is the signature music of Carnival in Bahia, but São Paulo has plenty of blocos bringing the same energy. Many also mix in Brazilian pop hits.

• Pleasing the Greeks – A mix of axé, funk, and pop music.
• Bloco Casa Comigo – Carnival hits and interactive performances.
• Carnacol Folia – A bloco filled with classic axé and party anthems.

Funk – The Sound of the Streets

Funk is one of Brazil’s most popular music styles, and many blocos focus entirely on bass-heavy beats and dance anthems.

• Garoterror – A funk-heavy bloco with an intense party atmosphere.
• Carnablitz – A funk and electronic music party with an open bar.
• Folia in Tiquatira – A mix of funk, electronic, and marchinhas.

Rock and Alternative – Carnival with a Twist

For those who want something different from samba, some blocos celebrate rock legends and alternative music.

• Bloco Ritaleena – A tribute to Rita Lee, blending rock with Carnival energy.
• Eduardo and Mônica Bloco – A bloco that plays Brazilian rock classics from bands like Legião Urbana and Capital Inicial.
• Bloco Chega Mais Grito de Carnaval – A parade featuring 80s rock hits from RPM, Kid Abelha, and more.

Sertanejo and Country – A Unique Carnival Experience

Brazilian country music, or sertanejo, is a major part of Brazil’s music scene, and some blocos bring it to Carnival.

• Bloco Bem Sertanejo with Michel Teló – A sertanejo-themed bloco featuring one of Brazil’s biggest country singers.
• Pineapple from Irará – A bloco with a mix of sertanejo and MPB.

Baitaca might be one of the guests during the carnival, but there are no offical news on that.

Afro-Brazilian Rhythms – Deep Cultural Roots

Blocos that focus on maracatu, côco, and afoxé bring strong Afro-Brazilian influences to the streets.

• Afoxé Omí Aiye – A bloco that highlights Afro-Brazilian drumming and chants.
• Arrianu Suassunga – A bloco focused on traditional northeastern rhythms.

International Sounds – A Global Carnival Experience

Some blocos break away from Brazilian music entirely and bring international hits into the mix.

• Bollywood – A bloco dedicated to Bollywood hits with a Carnival beat.
• EZATAMENTCHY – A bloco that plays a mix of LGBTQ+ anthems, electronic beats, and pop hits.
• Bloco Chega Mais – A bloco that features international pop and rock classics.

Parade Routes and Bloco Locations

Each bloco has a starting point, and many follow a fixed route through the city. Some last a few hours, while others keep the party going all day.

The biggest blocos take over entire avenues, while smaller ones stick to neighborhood streets.

Major Streets and Avenues for Blocos

• Avenida Paulista – One of the most famous streets, hosting major blocos like Monobloco.
• Rua Augusta – A hotspot for alternative blocos, including Bollywood and LGBTQ+ parties.
• Ibirapuera Park Area – The location for big blocos like Bloco Bem Sertanejo and Pleasing the Greeks.
• Praça da República – A traditional meeting point for big blocos like Tarado Ni Você.

Bloco Routes by Zone

1. West Zone – Wide Streets and Trendy Areas

• Bloco Casa Comigo – Starts at Avenida Henrique Schaumann, moves through Pinheiros.
• Bloco Ritaleena – Runs along Avenida Lineu de Paula Machado, near Jockey Club.
• Bantantã Carnival – A neighborhood parade through Butantã streets.

2. East Zone – Traditional and Community Vibes

• O Pinto do Visconde (Bloco da CUT) – Parade route follows Rua Visconde de Parnaíba in Mooca.
• Garoterror – Moves through Vila Cásper, crossing multiple small streets.
• Afoxé Omí Aiye – Starts at Praça Benedito Ramos Rodrigues, highlighting Afro-Brazilian culture.

3. Central Zone – Huge Crowds and Classic Routes

• Tarado Ni Você – Begins at Avenida Ipiranga, passing through República and Consolação.
• Bollywood – Takes over Rua Augusta, one of the most famous party streets.
• Carnablitz – Based in Rua Augusta, but stays in one place instead of moving.

4. South Zone – Carnival Around Ibirapuera

• Monobloco – Parade happens around Ibirapuera Park, near Avenida Pedro Álvares Cabral.
• Bloco Bem Sertanejo – Moves between the Obelisk and Monumento às Bandeiras.
• Pleasing the Greeks – Follows the same path as Bem Sertanejo, but on a different day.

5. North Zone – Local Streets and Cultural Blocos

• Bloco Urubó – Starts at Largo da Matriz, moving through Freguesia do Ó.
• Bloco dos Zattrevidos – Covers several neighborhood streets in Brasilândia.
• 100% Iracema Community – Moves through local avenues in Freguesia do Ó.

Paid Blocos – Is It Worth It?

Most blocos in São Paulo Carnival are completely free, open to anyone who wants to join the party. Some, however, offer VIP areas, open bars, or exclusive shows for those willing to pay.

Paid blocos at São Paulo Carnival 2025 offer a different kind of party, with VIP sections, open bars, and exclusive shows. Carnablitz mixes funk, electronic beats, and Carnival marchinhas, with an open bar included in the ticket price (March 3, Rua Augusta, from R$70).

For those looking for a more premium experience, Refúgio de Carnaval at Club Homs offers an open bar and all-you-can-eat gourmet food in a comfortable setting on Avenida Paulista (March 1, from R$450).

Paid blocos offer better facilities, exclusive performances, and smaller crowds.

Safety Tips for São Paulo Carnival

Huge crowds, loud music, and non-stop movement make São Paulo Carnival an incredible but intense experience.

Staying safe ensures you can enjoy every moment without stress or trouble.

Keep Your Belongings Safe

Pickpockets target distracted revelers, especially in packed blocos. Carry only essentials like ID, some cash, and your phone.

Avoid backpacks or open bags, as they make you an easy target. A small crossbody bag or a money belt under your clothes keeps valuables secure.

Always keep your phone in a front pocket, and never leave it visible in your hand for too long.

Even though Sao Paulo is among the safest cities in Brazil, you should remain cautious.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Long hours of dancing under the summer sun can wear you out quickly. Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Vendors sell bottled water everywhere, but bringing your own saves you time and money. Heat exhaustion is real, so stepping into the shade now and then keeps your energy up for the night ahead.

Street food is everywhere, so grab a snack between drinks to stay balanced.

Be Careful with Drinks

Alcohol flows freely during Carnival, but watch what you drink and where it comes from. Stick to official vendors and avoid homemade drinks from unknown sources.

Never leave your drink unattended, even for a second. Pace yourself, because drinking too much too fast will cut your night short.

Plan Your Transport in Advance

Getting to and from blocos can be chaotic, especially when it comes to public transport. The metro is the best option, running extended hours during Carnival.

If you use a rideshare app, order from a well-lit, safer location, as crowded streets make pickup points messy. Walking alone at night is never a good idea, so stay with your group at all times.

Stick with Your Group

Carnival crowds can separate even the closest friends. Before heading out, agree on a meeting spot in case someone gets lost.

Phone batteries drain fast, so sharing your location beforehand makes it easier to find each other. If a friend disappears, don’t assume they went home—check nearby and ask for help if needed.

Know Emergency Contacts

If anything goes wrong, help is available.

• Military Police: Dial 190 for immediate law enforcement assistance.
• Ambulance (SAMU): Call 192 for medical emergencies.
• Tourist Police: Reach them at 11-3257-4475 for issues specific to visitors.

Most blocos have security and medics on-site, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.

What to Wear for São Paulo Carnival 2025

Dressing right for São Paulo Carnival means staying cool, comfortable, and ready to party. The right outfit keeps you moving without distractions.

Go simple or go wild—just make sure it works for hours of dancing in the summer heat.

Costume or No Costume?

Costumes make Carnival more fun, but they’re not required. Some blocos have themes, so check ahead.

If dressing up isn’t your thing, wear colorful clothes and add fun accessories.

Best Shoes for Blocos

Forget flip-flops unless you want blisters and stepped-on toes. Sneakers or strapped sandals keep your feet safe and comfortable for hours of walking and dancing.

Stay Cool in the Heat

São Paulo is hot in February. Wear light, breathable fabrics, and bring sunglasses or a hat. Sunscreen is a must—apply before leaving and reapply often.

Bags and Extras

A small crossbody bag or fanny pack keeps your hands free and your stuff secure. Backpacks are risky in big crowds.

After all, you are not going to explore the Amazon, you are going to a party.

Add face paint, glitter, or funky glasses—Carnival is the time to go all out.

Best Food and Drinks for Carnival Days

Blocos run all day, and if you don’t eat right, you won’t last long. Street food, cold drinks, and smart choices keep the party going without crashing halfway through.

The good thing is that the food in Brazil is really amazing.

Street Food That Saves You

Blocos don’t stop, so neither should you. Grab a pastel with caldo de cana for a quick energy boost. Coxinhas, espetinhos, and pão de queijo are perfect one-hand snacks for dancing and eating at the same time. If you see a vendor selling acarajé, get one—it’s a fried ball of flavor that keeps you full.

Best Places to Refuel

The best food stalls pop up along major bloco routes, especially in Avenida Paulista, Rua Augusta, and República.

If you need a break, botecos and street grills serve cheap, hot meals that bring you back to life before the next round of partying.

Extra Tips to Make the Most of Carnival

Carnival is chaos in the best way possible. A little planning and a few smart moves can turn a good party into an unforgettable one.

Arrive Early, Leave Late

The best spots fill up fast. Get there early to grab space near the bloco’s starting point. Once the party starts, stay until the end—some of the wildest moments happen when the crowd thins out.

Pick One Bloco at a Time

Trying to hit five blocos in one day sounds fun until you’re lost in a sea of people with no clue where to go next. Stick to one or two well-planned blocos instead of chasing too many.

Carry Cash and a Charged Phone

Card machines fail, and digital payments aren’t always an option. Bring small bills for drinks and snacks. A portable charger saves you from losing your friends when your phone dies mid-bloco.

Expect Surprises

No bloco goes exactly as planned. Some get delayed, some change routes, and sometimes the best party is the random one you stumble into. The best Carnival moments happen when you go with the flow.

Party Hard, But Stay Smart

Drink, dance, and have the time of your life, but don’t be reckless. Keep an eye on your stuff, know how to get home, and watch out for your friends. A smart partier stays in the game until the last bloco.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Carnival in São Paulo is loud, wild, and completely unpredictable—exactly how it should be. No matter which blocos you hit, you’ll dance, get lost in the crowd, and probably wake up with glitter everywhere.

Pick your parties, stay smart, and let the city pull you into the madness. The best moments happen when you stop worrying and just go with it. Drink water, keep your friends close, and celebrate like there’s no tomorrow—because, during Carnival, nothing else matters.