Carnival in Brazil, one of the largest and most iconic events in the world, has become increasingly inclusive for the LGBTQ+ community and its visitors. This shift has had a positive impact on the tourism industry, attracting millions of travelers, with a significant portion belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.
Today, it is almost impossible to take a photo of Carnival without capturing LGBTQ+ couples celebrating in the streets and at parties. Just a few years ago, there wasn’t as much visibility for this community during the celebrations, but that reality has changed. Brazilian laws now have stronger protections against LGBTQ+ discrimination, strengthening an environment of acceptance and respect.
Carnival in Brazil is, by nature, a multifaceted event, with diversity not only in its traditions but also in the music, the Samba Schools parades, and the famous street parties. Cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Olinda, Recife, Salvador, and Florianópolis, among others, welcome LGBTQ+ tourists from all over the world. This year, the LGBTQ+ community was present not only in large capitals but also in small towns, at the beach, and in the mountains, celebrating diversity.
In the Samba School parades, important themes were addressed. The Estrela do Terceiro Milênio School, for example, brought the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Brazil, from the time of Cabral. The samba lyrics were moving and touched everyone’s heart. The Paraíso do Tuiuti School honored Xica Manicongo (she/her), the first documented trans woman in Brazil, who faced great difficulties in her life. The Vai-Vai School paid tribute to the playwright Zé Celso (he/him), a gay icon and theatre director, who has been married for over 30 years. The presence of artists has also been fundamental to this inclusion. Daniela Mercury (she/her), the queen of Axé music and an icon of Carnival in Bahia, is a lesbian and always speaks out in defense of the LGBTQ+ community. This year, her show at the closing of Carnival 2025 in São Paulo gathered millions of people.
The street Carnival, especially in São Paulo, stands out for its diversity. “Blocos” (Street Carnival groups) like “Siga Bem Caminhoeira” and “Dramas de Sapatão” highlighted the strength of lesbian women in Carnival. Even more visibility was given to blocs led by Drag Queens, such as Mamma Darling and Salete, who attract a loyal and passionate audience. São Paulo also saw the emergence of new blocs, like Banda do Fuxico, which filled the streets of the city center with the energy of the LGBTQ+ movement, putting on a spectacular show of colors, sounds, and rhythms. The mix of Axé, Samba, Frevo, Reggae, Funk, and even electronic music ensured the diversity of rhythms in the street parties.
Carnival in Brazil is undoubtedly an invitation for all LGBTQ+ tourists, both domestic and international. The festivities can be enjoyed in several cities over two weeks. After all the partying, why not relax and explore amazing destinations such as the Amazon, Pantanal, or islands like Fernando de Noronha and Ilha Grande? Brazil offers leisure options for all tastes, making the trip a complete experience.
Members of IGLTA (International LGBT+ Travel Association) are ready to ensure your visit is unforgettable. Enjoy the Carnival and come live the diversity, love, and culture of a Brazil that belongs to everyone!
Author's Note: As I live in São Paulo, I’m sharing more photos from my beautiful city — especially from my home in Largo do Arouche, our LGBTQ+ village. Carnival in São Paulo, Brazil: 22 February - 9 March 2025. Clovis Casemiro (he/him).