Coronavirus

Amid skepticism, São Paulo decides on protocols for samba school parades

Carnival parade in São Paulo, 2019. BW Press/Shutterstock
Carnival parade in São Paulo, 2019. Photo: BW Press/Shutterstock

Municipal officials in São Paulo decided on the health protocols samba schools will have to observe during their 2022 Carnival parades. Spectators will have to submit proof of vaccination in advance and mask use will be mandatory. Attendance will also be limited in order to avoid large gatherings. 

Parade participants will also be required to use masks, which will change how samba schools are graded in the final competition. Part of their evaluation is based on whether members’ performance and singing are in accordance with the theme.

Officials, however, admitted to the possibility of canceling the parades altogether if the Omicron wave continues to worsen. Popular Carnival street parties have already been suspended. On Tuesday, Brazil’s seven-day average of new daily cases reached its all-time high.