Brazilian Carnival 2027 Samba‑Enredo Selections Spotlight New Themes

The Marajoara shaman Zeneida Lima is the inspiration for Beija‑Flor de Nilópolis' 2027 samba‑enredo, titled “Zeneida: O Sopro do Pó de Louro.” Composers Ailson Picanço, Marcelo Moraes, Junior PQD, Junior Billy Mandy, Geraldo M. Fenícios and Marquinho Paloma combined research from Pará and Rio de Janeiro, recording on Marajó and filming in Rio. Ailson Picanço said, “A Beija‑Flor faz parte da minha história. Voltar a disputar um samba na escola com um enredo que homenageia Zeneida Lima é motivo de muito orgulho.”

Separately, the samba school Nenê de Vila Matilde announced its 2027 carnival theme “Mulheres de Palmares – A Liberdade tem rosto de mulher,” with carnavalesco Chico Angelo directing the sixth parade. After a qualifying round, three partnership groups were selected for the final competition to be held at the Anhembi Sambódromo.

Both projects illustrate a growing focus on cultural heritage and regional representation in Brazil’s major carnival schools as they prepare for the 2027 season.