At Rio’s world-famous Sambadrome, performers and musicians are getting ready for the carnival season. Each year, more and more groups that include professional dancers come to the city.

Raphaëlle Charron, who’s from Montreal, is among these groups.

Charron says, “It’s a lot of work. I really admire the Brazilian men and women who do this all year because it takes a lot of dedication. You put a lot of yourself into it, a lot of sweat.”

The carnival attracts around eight million people to the city, creating a chance for both tourists and performers to discover various cultures.

Dancer Georgette Barnes explains, “What’s happening is that a lot of people are interested and connecting with different cultures around the world. Samba offers a space to dance and learn a lot about the culture, the movements, and to connect with the communities, the people through the dance.”

Top dancers perform at the Sambadrome venue. Samba schools parade there each year, hosting more than 80,000 visitors and 5000 participants. A panel of about 40 judges evaluate the schools’ costumes, music, and movements before announcing the winning school on Ash Wednesday.

Despite the intense preparation, participants are enjoying themselves. Dancer Lea Nifaut said, “It’s been great, really incredible, with a very good energy. This year, our school chose to honor African culture, which resonates with me as a citizen of Réunion. I’m very proud to be participating and promoting both Brazilian and African cultural heritage.”

The carnival begins on February 28th and ends on March 5th.