Helsinki Samba Carnaval

10–11 June 2011 

Have you always dreamt of going to Rio for the carnival? This year, Helsinki Samba Carnaval invites you along for the 21st time. This carnival is one of the largest free public events in Helsinki, and based on our experience from previous years we are expecting 20,000–30,000 spectators. Samba schools from various parts of Finland as well as other performing groups will be in the parade, more than 1,000 dancers and musicians in all.

According to Brazilian colleagues, the standard of Helsinki Samba Carnaval equals that of the carnivals in Rio, only the scale being smaller. And that’s a good thing, you will be able to watch the carnival close to home and free of charge!

The parade is entertainment for the whole family as the performers will be children’s alas (ala = group in a parade), baianas (where there may be grandmothers of stars in children’s alas), passistas (the most skilled of our samba dancers), a bateria (where strong men and graceful maidens beat their drums in a dizzying rhythm; you don’t, however, need earplugs unless you want to stand very close to the bateria) and other colourful alas – you will meet all these at the Esplanade.

On Friday there will be the opening and the crowning of the Samba King and Queen, and on Saturday evening Baile do Caranaval will be organised as part of Helsinki Samba Carnaval. 

www.helsinkisambacarnaval.fi             Helsinki Samba Carnaval on YouTube