Rio de Janeiro, as the City of Carnival, offers a selection of Carnival balls. You should not miss them. You won’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time. Tickets to most balls will cost you around R$30 to R$50 ($15-20) and are available at the door. Exceptions are the two most famous luxury hotels, Copacabana Palace and Gloria. Other great balls are in Rio Scala. Clube dos Caiçaras and the Hard Rock Cafe’s Kid’s Folia also organize animated costume balls for adults and children. There are more themed balls city-wide such as nights for singles, etc.
Costumes are not mandatory, with the exception of at a few balls. Putting on one will help you get in the right mood and will make the night even more special. Bear in mind however that Rio is the capital of Carnival and costume standards are very high.
A true Carnival ball features live music and samba rules the floor. The percussion groups are full of vigor and can be just as loud as loud-speakers in a night club.
The Magic Ball at Copacabana Palace Hotel
Saturday, February 13th, from 23:00
This legendary ball is not just the high point of the night but also the most famous Carnival ball; the natural choice for glamour and sophistication. Luxury costume or black tie/evening dress is required, and a number of international and local VIPs are always among the guests. All tickets include buffet dinner and free open bar. There are different tickets for the individual dining rooms. All tickets provide access to all ballrooms. Best value is the standing ticket. Although it has no seat assigned, tables are available in the veranda and other areas close to the buffet.
This year’s prices are as follows
Golden Room: US$ 1,640 – with table assignement at the Golden Room
Noble Room: US$ 1,094 – with table assignment at the Noble Room
Standing: US$ 858 – no table assignement
Ball Masque 2010
Friday, February 19th, 22:00-05:00
Live music taking turns with a DJ and the drummers of one of the best Rio samba schools.
Dress formal or wear a fancy-dress.
Venue: Hotel Sofitel, Av. Atlântica 4240 / Level E – Copacabana
Admission Standing: US$ 249
Table seat per person: US$ 325
Prices include free buffet and drinks
Scala Balls
In its 29th year, the Scala nightclub offers thematic dances every night during Carnival, having the grandest indoor carnival parties of the city. The venue is big and very well-known.
Venue: Rio Scala, Avenida Afrânio de Melo Franco 296 – Leblon
You will find standard tickets for most events at the door even on the night, just do not arrive too late. You are advised to buy tickets for the Gala and the Gay Costume balls 3-5 days in advance. Reserve tables and boxes 3-5 days in advance with the above number.
Table prices are per table with 4 seats.
VIP box prices are per person and include unlimited alcoholic drinks (except whiskey) and free buffet with sushi, fruit and snack bar.
Salgueiro Carnival Ball
Thursday, February 11th
It is a good opportunity to experience the music and atmosphere of one of the most traditional and well-known samba schools (Salgueiro) without having to visit its rehearsal space. The School will have it all – its drummer group, its principal samba dancers and the flag bearer and her escort. It is a true and real samba night; you can dance all night or just watch and enjoy the crowd.
Red and Black Ball
Friday, February 12th
This night celebrates and is dedicated to the world-famous Rio football team, Flamengo, with the red-and-black striped flag. It is one of the most popular nights.
Mangueira Carnival Ball
Saturday, February 13th
Formely on Thursday, the Mangueira Ball has moved to Saturday. The School will have it all – its drummer group, its principal samba dancers and the flag bearer and her escort. It is a true and real samba night; you can dance all night or just watch and enjoy the crowd.
A Night in Ibiza
Sunday, February 14th
This is the biggest ball in the series with some special guests, with a mix of electronic music and samba.
Ball of the ´Beer´
Monday, February 15th
A new event in the series. Unlimited free beer all night. Live music by a Carnival band taking turns with a Rio DJ (Mc Marcinho).
Gay Costume Ball
Tuesday, February 16th until 7:00 am
This is probably the most famous night in the series. A truly exotic collection of characters take to the two floors and a grand entrance is de rigueur. The ball is broadcast to the whole of Brazil. It attracts a flamboyant crowd with lots of drag queens and their admirers.
It is very popular with all folks not only gay boys and girls.
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