SAO LUIZ DO PARAITINGA, Brazil (AP) — During Carnival, the small Brazilian town of Sao Luiz do Paraitinga’s calm everyday life transforms into a joyful party known for its deep-rooted traditions, giant puppets and songs known in Portuguese as ‘marchinhas.’ Carnival in the big Brazilian cities like Rio de Janeiro is a combination of world-famous parades by samba schools who spend all year preparing and eccentric street parties, each with their own theme, aesthetic or musical style. But in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga, thousands of revelers, families and tourists sing and dance through scenic streets in the Sao Paulo countryside to the sound of traditional Carnival marches.
Surrounded by green hills, Sao Luiz do Paraitinga has roughly 10,000 inhabitants. It is a popular tourist destination thanks to its colored, colonial buildings and vibrant cultural events dotted throughout the year. Street parties have ballooned in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, and many are packed with scantily clad revelers, jostling with street vendors who provide thirsty partygoers with water and lots of alcohol.
And while Carnival marches can also be heard in mega-cities’ street parties, they rarely take center stage as they do in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga. The town's Carnival celebration is described as the best in the interior of Sao Paulo state, offering a more traditional and family-oriented experience. Families and tourists alike flock to the town to enjoy the festivities, which are known for their peaceful atmosphere and cultural richness.
For many, the appeal of Sao Luiz do Paraitinga's Carnival lies in its emphasis on 'marchinhas,' traditional Carnival songs that hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The town's unique blend of history, culture, and community spirit make it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Carnival experience.
