Representing NGOs, unions, the government itself, the floats are of all kinds. They provide the music and the voice of the event. Over 20 trio eletricos take to the streets. Even though the meeting point is at 1 PM, the parade doesn’t start to move before 2 or 3 PM. The parade will take place at the Avenida Atlantica along Copacabana Beach and will end at Posto 2, in the proximities of the famed Copacabana Palace Hotel. It’s right in the confluence of Ipanema and Copacabana. The meeting point is at the Posto 6 which is located near the Forte de Copacabana, or if your not familiar with it, close to the Rio Sofitel Hotel. Thousands of people attend-most of them half-naked-and the festivities also include shows by drag queens and DJs. So, take the opportunity to get a tan while partying. The parade is 1,3 miles long (2,1 kms.) and it’s all along the Copacabana Beach.
The highlight of the festival is the Gay Pride March. (the dates have moved over the past few years to early September). Though it may seem like Rio celebrates pride year round, the official Gay Pride Festival (Parada Do Orgulho LGBTI+ Em Copacabana) is held between September and November on Copacabana Beach. A pride parade that sizzles in September – Rio!
