bate bolas have a rich and clearly defined sub-culture, complete with rules, meeting points, and even competitions for the best costumes.

there are no sponsorships involved, and each member finances his or her own costumes, at a cost going up to 2000 reals.

maintaining a tradition that goes back decades, many bate bolas groups are still a cherished family activity, where parents and their children dress up in matching outfits and walk around the streets in the neighborhood to 'scare' other carnaval revelers.