at the end of the rehearsal, some of rio's most traditional blocos (street bands) join in playing traditional samba songs.

these rehearsals are highly anticipated and so important to be reported in detail by local newspapers, complete with pictures and interviews, and to be televised.

one of the most fun parts of these events is the 'arrasta-povo' - the ability to join the last samba school to rehears and march with the performers through the sambódromo.

for those visitors who will not be in rio during the final two months of preparations before the carnaval parades, smaller-scale rehearsals can also be attended at the headquarters of the main samba schools throughout most of the year.