Location: Throughout Rio de Janeiro.
Event: The annual Rio de Janeiro Carnaval celebrations will take place between Saturday, February 14 and Wednesday, February 18. While the official parades will take place in the Sambadrome near the Centro area, you can expect to see large gatherings and parades, also known as “blocos,” throughout the city. Ahead of the festivities, U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and exercise increased situational awareness.
Holiday Closure: U.S. Consulate Rio de Janeiro will be closed from Monday, February 16 to Wednesday, February 18 for the Carnaval holidays.
Actions to Take During Carnaval:
- Consider downloading the COR app to access real-time information on city events, traffic, weather conditions, and transportation.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
- Plan extra time to arrive at your destination.
- Make contingency plans in case you are separated from friends or family during the celebrations.
- Do not wear jewelry, especially expensive items, or carry large amounts of cash. Opportunistic crime, including cell phone or jewelry theft, is a common issue during Carnaval.
- Keep windows closed when inside a vehicle. Park in well-lit areas and avoid leaving valuables inside.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration during the hot summer season.
- Avoid favelas (comunidades) at all times, even during street parties/blocos.
- Do not accept drinks from strangers and do not leave drinks unattended.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt as criminals are often armed.
- Stay informed. Monitor the media for the latest security developments.
- Report any criminal activity first to local police (190) and then contact us at the numbers listed below if you need assistance.
Click here for our 2026 Carnaval safety tips flyer.
Assistance:
U.S. Consulate General Rio de Janeiro
Av. Presidente Wilson, 147 Castelo
Rio de Janeiro, RJ – 20030-020
Entrance at Rua Santa Luzia
Phone: (21) 3823-2000
After-Hours Emergencies: (21) 3823-2029
Email: ACSRio@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs: 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Brazil Country Information
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates. If you wish to unsubscribe, click the Unsubscribe link below:
Unsubscribe
Receive Embassy Alerts on WhatsApp:
U.S. citizens in Brazil can receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and Consulates via WhatsApp. To follow the U.S. Citizens in Brazil WhatsApp Channel, click here using your device with WhatsApp installed. You can unfollow the channel at any time.
