Rio Carnival 2026 was officially opened this Friday morning (13) with the symbolic handover of the key to the city to King Momo Danilo Vieira.
The ceremony took place at the City Palace, in Botafogo, in the south zone, and brought together authorities, samba representatives and members of the carnival court.
“It is with great gratitude, with great honor, that I thank the city hall for this opportunity to represent all revelers. I now officially declare the 2026 Rio de Janeiro Carnival open”, said King Momo.
When passing the key to the ruler of the festivities, Mayor Eduardo Paes highlighted the symbolism of the moment and called on Rio residents and tourists to celebrate the festive period.
“For me, it is an honor, for the fourteenth time, to hand over the key to the city to King Momo and his Court. We call on all Cariocas and those who visit us to receive our festive spirit. Have fun, but responsibly”, said Paes.
The ceremony also featured performances by the drums of Beija-Flor de Nilópolis, champion of the previous carnival, and the band of the Municipal Guard.
In addition to King Momo, the Queen of Carnival 2026, Caroline Xavier, Princesses Samara Trindade and Luana Fernandes participated in the ceremony, as well as the LGBT+ Court, formed by the muse John Sorriso, the muse Viviane Carvalho and the non-binary citizen Wend.
The event was also attended by Tia Surica, the Candonga family — guardian of the city’s key — and representatives of the Old Guards of Rio’s samba schools.
