First of all, it helps to know that the Sambadrome is called Sambódromo in Portuguese. The Sambadrome Marques de Sapucaí is where the mesmerizing Rio de Janeiro samba parade is held during the carnival week. Located in downtown Rio, it is close to the area where the Brazilian-African dance form originated generations ago.

The Evolution of Rio's Sambadrome

The Sambadrome has undergone significant renovation. Four new concrete buildings were constructed, hosting new sectors with various seating options: grandstands, open boxes or frisas, and Camarotes. The revamped Sambadrome was completed in December 2011.

Currently named Passarela do Samba Darcy Ribeiro, it was built on the former Marques de Sapucaí Street and is often referred to by that name. The end of the samba runway, where all participants gather post-parade and where results are announced on Ash Wednesday, is known as Apotheosis Square.

Capacity and Various Sectors

The Sambodrome accommodates over 72,500 spectators and sees 80,000+ participants during the annual parade, with each samba school comprising about 2500 – 4000 performers. It is divided into concrete sectors, with even numbered sectors on one side and odd numbered sectors on the other.

Rio Carnival Ticket Packages for 2027

Carnival ticket packages are available for both unmarked and marked seats in grandstands, boxes, and luxury suites. Purchase your tickets for the 2027 Rio Carnival parade online here.

Other Events Hosted at the Sambadrome

International artists frequently perform at the Sambadrome. Past concerts have featured James Blunt, Guns n Roses, Carlos Santana, Robbie Williams, Bob Dylan, Radiohead, the Jonas Brothers, and Avril Lavigne, among others. The Black Eyed Peas also performed here in 2010. The venue also hosted the athletics marathon and archery events during the 2016 Summer Olympics.

Grandstands or Bleachers

General admission ticket packages for the Rio Carnival offer incredible views of the samba parade from the elevated concrete steps. These tickets are not numbered, except for Sector 9, the tourist sector.

Allocated Chairs

Available only in Sector 12, allocated chairs are the most affordable seating options at the Rio Sambadrome. Located at the end of the samba parade, near Apotheosis Square, these seats are organized in an open-air theatre style.

Front Box or Frisas

Known as Frisas, these are the best ticket packages for experiencing the samba parades up close. Positioned at floor level, Frisas comprise six seats per box, in numbered rows.

Camarote Folia Tropical

An All-Inclusive Lounge in sector 8 perfect for party-goers who wish to enjoy the parade and party simultaneously. It offers an open bar, buffet, DJs, shows, and transportation from two meeting points in the South Zone and Barra da Tijuca, accommodating 1,200 people.

Camarote VerdeRosa

VerdeRosa blends elegance with the soul of Mangueira, offering premium gastronomy, an open bar, and live music for up to 600 guests. Located in Sector 7 between the judges' cabins, it provides a spectacular 360-degree view of the floats, costumes, and front commissions. With its spacious and refined layout, it is the perfect choice for those seeking maximum comfort and cultural authenticity at Rio Carnival.

Camarote Mar

Camarote Mar is a vibrant, all-inclusive VIP experience for up to 3,000 guests, bringing together top-tier food, drinks, and non-stop celebration. Strategically located at the center of Sapucaí (Sector 6), it features one of the largest and most spectacular balconies in the entire Sambadrome. Combining premium comfort with an electric festival energy, it is the perfect spot to experience Rio Carnival in full swing all night long.