Copa Carnival Ball at Copacabana Palace: A Celebration of Heritage and Future
Rio Carnival, Copacabana Palace, a black-tie gala—each is synonymous with opulence and tradition, capturing the essence of fun celebrations. Every year, on the Saturday of Carnival, these elements come together for the glitzy Copa Carnival Ball at Copacabana Palace, one of Rio’s hottest parties. This city is famous for its vibrant street parties, drawing hundreds of thousands of revelers, while 90,000 people crowd into the Sambadrome for a spectacular showcase of samba schools.
The inaugural Copa Carnival Ball marked its debut during the Roaring Twenties, and its legendary status has only grown over the years. Celebrities like Brigitte Bardot, Mary Pickford, and Joan Fontaine have graced the event, making the halls and ballrooms of this esteemed venue echo with glamorous history.
Today, the guest list remains one of the most prestigious in Rio. Politicians, socialites, and musicians glide along the black carpet, greeted by paparazzi and onlookers. A live band sets the mood, amplifying the excitement for the main events at the Sambadrome, where Carnival unfolds over Sunday and Monday. As the Copa celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2023, the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation—this year, Carnival is back in full force for the first time since the pandemic.
More is More
The official dress code for the Copa Carnival Ball is ‘black tie’, yet this term hardly encapsulates the extravagance on display. Rio de Janeiro during Carnival invites show-stopping fashion that exceeds traditional norms. While some attendees don classic black tie attire, the majority embrace bold, glamourous outfits adorned with feathers and gold headdresses. Men and women alike go all out, showcasing creativity and flair like the stunning individuals who captivate the room.
Samba is Everything
The festivities take over the entire second floor of the hotel, with meticulous preparations beginning weeks in advance. This year’s theme, ‘1923-2123’, invites guests on a journey from the hotel’s opulent origins to a futuristic vision of Carnival. With over 1,500 attendees, the atmosphere is electric, enhanced by a DJ remixing popular hits. However, the main attraction lies in the Golden Room—known for hosting renowned performers like Ella Fitzgerald. Here, samba music fills the air as dazzling dancers entertain in elaborate displays, encouraging all attendees to immerse themselves in the rhythm.
Carnival—Embracing the Future as Much as the Past
Rio Carnival’s origins trace back to the 1650s, cultivating a rich heritage that enhances every celebration. The first masquerade ball appeared in the 19th century, and by the 1910s, samba—a genre that now defines Carnival—captured the hearts of revelers. As the city reawakens from pandemic restrictions, local residents display an eagerness for Carnival’s evolution, embracing a lively celebration that promises a brighter, more dynamic future.
Showgirls: A Carnival Tradition
Rio’s love for showgirls is palpable, particularly at the Copa. With each Carnival Ball, the stage shines brightly with these performers, celebrating glamour and joy. This year’s Queen of the Ball, Izabel Goulard, scintillated the crowd, guiding the festivities into the early morning. As the final notes lingered, guests spilled into the sunlit streets, continuing the celebration that seamlessly transitions from night to day.
Embrace the exuberance of Rio Carnival at the Copa Carnival Ball, where every moment sparks joy and excitement. Experience the majestic blend of past and present in a celebration that truly reflects the heart of this remarkable city.
