From Fujitsu General around the world - Carnival events in Brazil and Germany
Hello! Even though Japan remains cold, a thrilling event unfolded in Brazil and Germany on the other side of the world.
Fujitsu General's Brazilian and German branches, Fujitsu General do Brasil Ltda. and Fujitsu General (EURO) GmbH, have shared fascinating tales of local Carnival celebrations that we would love to pass on to you.
Carnivals in Brazil🌈
Carnival in Brazil is a popular festival that takes place annually in February.
With its dynamic festivities, samba school processions, street parades, extravagant balls, and festive gatherings spanning the entire country, this event is truly one of the largest in the country.
During Carnival, Brazilian cities burst with music, dance, and colors. People gather to celebrate, and the atmosphere is filled with great joy, energy, and fun.
Indispensable for Carnivals; Samba School
When you think of Brazilian Carnival, the first thing that comes to mind would probably be the sight of dancers in samba costumes. The dancers in the parade belong to local councils called "samba schools”. The "samba schools" were created to emphasize the importance of Brazilian culture and to provide ample employment opportunities in the community. Dancers and musicians of all ages, from adults to children, make up the schools. Every year, Rio's Carnival features over 70 schools, each with its own distinct theme.
Highlight of Carnival; Parade
Samba school parades are a highlight of Carnival. Schools from São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro compete in the Sambadromes - a vast facility built for the samba competition, in different categories, presenting elaborate themes, luxurious costumes, and choreographed performances.
In addition to the parades in “Sambadrome”, street parades are an essential part of Carnival, with people coming together to dance, sing, and enjoy themselves to the sounds of various musical styles.
People often dress in creative and colorful costumes, and the streets are adorned with festive decorations✨
Regional characteristics of the Carnival
Carnival is also an opportunity for people to express their culture and regional identity. There are specific Carnival traditions in different parts of Brazil, such as frevo in Recife and Olinda, axé in Salvador, and samba in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and other states. In the Southeast, it’s mainly samba school parade in the Sambadrome and street parades. In the Northeast, Carnival is known for its lively and colorful street parties, with highlights in cities like Recife, Olinda, and Salvador.
Electric trios are a prominent feature, with bands playing on top of trucks as crowds dance through the streets🎪
In Recife and Olinda, the frevo, a vibrant style of music and dance, stands out, while in Salvador, axé music dominates the festivities.
In other regions of Brazil, Carnival may have unique characteristics and specific local traditions💃
Cities in Germany are also energized for the carnival events, too🦜
Carnivals in Germany🌞
The German word for carnival is "Karneval" or "Fasching". Carnivals are held on a nationwide scale. Our colleagues in German office also joined in celebrating one of the most outstanding carnivals in "Düsseldorf", which is famous for its glittering costumes and eye-catching parades.
Dusseldorf Carnival
Let's start with a fascinating fact : did you know that the Carnival season in Düsseldorf ignites on November 11th at precisely 11:11 AM? It marks the beginning of festivities for numerous Carnival associations scattered across the city. Numbering over 70, there associations are the lifeblood of the Carnival spirit in Düsseldorf. From organizing parades to hosting extravagant events, each association brings its unique flair to the celebration, ensuring there's never a dull moment.
Features of Dusseldorf Carnival
The high season of Carnival magic starts with Altweiberfastnacht, also known as Women's Carnival Day, when the women of Düsseldorf seize control of the City Hall in a joyous display of empowerment.
Tradition intertwines with modernity as women partake in the playful custom of cutting men's ties (consensually), symbolizing a lighthearted exchange of power.⚡
Not to worry, Gentlemen, fear not. Cutting the tie is often accompanied by a delightful 'bützchen' – a charming kiss – as a token of goodwill.💗
It's a long-standing tradition within Fujitsu General (Euro) to celebrate Altweiber in our office, with costumes, drinks, music, and of course, the beloved tradition of cutting ties.
The Carnival festivities continue until they reach their pinnacle on Rose Monday, the highlight of Düsseldorf's Carnival. This is the day when the city truly comes alive with a spectacular parade and 100 of floats that dazzles the senses. The streets are lined with thousands of eager onlookers, with glittering costumes resonating with the infectious beats of music and laughter🥁
Children, in particular, are filled with glee as they wait to partake in the tradition of "gripschen" – eagerly grabbing candies and small gifts tossed from the floats to fill their bags and pockets with sweet treasures🍬
As the festivities reach their peak, Families gather, friends reunite, and strangers become fast friends after all.
Lastly, some photos of Fujitsu General Group colleagues in Germany enjoying themselves there.
Thank you for taking the time to read it all the way through.🐣
We would be happy if you could get a closer look at local life through information on carnivals in Brazil and Germany, respectively. We will continue to provide information on business and life overseas through Fujitsu General's global network. Please look forward to the next release🌍