The “SeráQAbre?” megablock made history this Sunday, transforming the streets of downtown Rio de Janeiro into a massive carnival stage. Featuring the highly anticipated debut of superstar Ivete Sangalo, the parade drew an estimated crowd of over 500,000 people along the Rua Primeiro de Março.
Fans gathered at the “Preta Gil Circuit” from the early hours, chanting Sangalo’s name and sporting costumes inspired by her latest hit, Vampirinha. From atop the massive sound truck (trio elétrico), the singer addressed the crowd: “This is a very special moment in my career, one that I will keep in my heart forever.” Her setlist included global hits like Festa and Sorte Grande, alongside her “Ivete Clareou” project, which pays homage to classic Brazilian Samba and Pagode.
A Tribute to Preta Gil The event reached its emotional peak when Sangalo paid tribute to fellow artist Preta Gil, for whom the parade circuit is named. Visibly moved, Ivete opened the procession with Gil’s hit Sinais de Fogo. “Preta has been part of my life since the first day I stepped into Rio. She isn’t here today, but she deeply wanted me to be,” Sangalo told the crowd of thousands.
Bernardo Fellows, President of Riotur (Rio’s Tourism Board), emphasized the event’s cultural weight: “Ivete’s debut symbolizes our Carnival’s ability to reinvent itself while remaining a free, democratic, and popular celebration.” The parade also featured guest appearances by pop artist Pedro Sampaio and was attended by the 2026 Carnival Queen, Caroline Xavier.
Analysis & Context
Bridging Bahia and Rio Flávio Saturnino, founder of the SeráQAbre block, noted that bringing Ivete Sangalo to the capital reinforces the connection between the street carnivals of Salvador and Rio de Janeiro. This year, Rio’s street carnival is expected to attract approximately six million participants across more than 400 authorized parades.
