As preparations begin for the 2027 Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, samba schools from both the Special Group and the Gold Series have started unveiling commercial wing costumes for the festivities on the Marquês de Sapucaí. These commercial wings offer a unique opportunity for individuals to participate in the parades by purchasing costumes, bypassing the need for direct community affiliation or internal selection processes within the organizations.
Beija-Flor de Nilópolis, the runner-up of the 2026 competition, has already announced eight commercial wings for the upcoming year. Their theme, "Zeneida: The Breath of Laurel Powder," was developed by carnival designer João Vitor Araújo to honor Zeneida Lima, a pajé and environmentalist from Marajó in Pará.
Meanwhile, Portela is set to pay tribute to Monarco (1933-2021), a celebrated figure in the history of the Madureira school. They have shared several costume options for participants, including the "Raízes da Portela" wing, which references a theme the samba singer previously featured with Unidos de Padre Miguel in 1966. Another available option is the "Amor e Paz" wing, featuring a costume named "Grandfather's Heart Full of Tenderness." The school's official profile lists additional wings for public selection.
In the Gold Series, Estácio de Sá has announced options for their parade centered on the theme "Centenary of the Cradle of Samba: Where Samba Became School and Brazil Became Carnival." Available choices include a composition for the opening float and the "Orfeu do Carnaval" wing. Additionally, Rio Carnaval has launched an album featuring samba-enredo songs for the 2027 season.
Sources: CNN Brasil.