SAO LUIZ DO PARAITINGA, Brazil (AP) — Sao Luiz do Paraitinga, a small Brazilian town, undergoes a remarkable transformation during Carnival season, turning its usually tranquil atmosphere into a vibrant celebration renowned for its rich cultural heritage, elaborate giant puppets, and lively musical performances known as ‘marchinhas’ in Portuguese.
While the Carnival festivities in major Brazilian cities such as Rio de Janeiro are characterized by grand samba school parades and extravagant street parties featuring various themes, aesthetics, and musical genres, the scene in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga offers a unique experience. Here, thousands of locals, visitors, and families come together to revel in the traditional Carnival marches amidst the picturesque countryside of Sao Paulo.
“It’s the ultimate celebration in the heart of Sao Paulo state,” remarked Dayana Martins Galan, 39, as she immersed herself in the festivities on a sunny Sunday. “It harks back to the classic Carnival era.”
Nestled among verdant hills, Sao Luiz do Paraitinga, with its population of approximately 10,000 residents, has become a popular tourist destination due to its charming colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and a calendar filled with vibrant cultural events throughout the year.
Gheisa Gomes, a former traveler from Guarulhos in Sao Paulo’s metropolitan area, paused her visits to Sao Luiz do Paraitinga after becoming a mother. However, this year, she decided to reintroduce her daughter to the joyful celebrations of the Carnival season. “The atmosphere is family-friendly, peaceful, and free of conflicts. We can revel in the festivities, and my daughter can dance. Exploring the Carnival traditions together is truly enriching,” Gomes shared.
In contrast to the bustling street parties teeming with partygoers in scanty attire and vendors offering copious amounts of beverages in cities like Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the Carnival revelry in Sao Luiz do Paraitinga remains focused on the age-old ‘marchinhas’ that take center stage.
“Every person should experience this at least once and revel in the joy of ‘marchinhas’,” asserted Marcela Antunes Ceneviva, 43. “It embodies tradition, and there is immense value in preserving and promoting this cultural legacy.”
