the term bate-bolas can be translated as 'ball-slammers', due to the rubber ball they carry and slam on the ground to create a loud thud or noise.

with costumes inspired by european folklore characters arlecchino and pierrot, all members of a bate bola clan wear exactly the same costume, that can be quite elaborate and expensive.

in the year 2000, twelve of the most traditional blocos united to create sebastiana - associação independente dos blocos de carnaval de rua da zona sul, santa teresa e centro da cidade de são sebastião do rio de janeiro, an association to guide and lead overall blocos across rio de janeiro.

in sebastiana's concept, a bloco is a type of carnival parade in which people of all ages follow a band singing and dancing at the rhythm of samba - as set by the percussionists.