the sambódromo hosts the competition and consists of a long alley through which the floats and dancers pass, entertaining the crowds who line the passage - this is where new samba songs are introduced and played for the public as they are scored with the parades -  the event ends with the top five winners of the samba contest performing.

another event that is not specifically dedicated to music but turns out to be an important musical event in the city is new year's eve, or locally known as réveillon - 12 stages are erected all over the city, with each hosting national and international performers putting on a show for all the cariocas and visitors dressed in white awaiting the new year.