Which Rio de Janeiro Carnival event traditionally brings together the year’s winning samba schools?

The Parade of Champions is the Rio de Janeiro Carnival event that traditionally brings together the year’s winning samba schools.

After the judged Special Group parades and the announcement of results, the highest-placed schools return for a celebratory presentation. This event is commonly called the Parade of Champions and is held at the Sambadrome. It gives successful schools an opportunity to perform again without the same competitive pressure as the main judging nights.

The event is not the same as the opening ceremony or the initial Special Group contest. Schools first compete for scores across several judging categories; the champions’ parade follows the results and celebrates the leading entries.

Terminology can vary in translations and media reports, but “Parade of Champions” is the standard English name for this post-results showcase. It is also distinct from the Access Group’s competition and from Rio’s many independent street-bloco parades.