Rio's own “Oscar night” celebrates the ocean, inviting elegantly costumed regulars to dive into the timeless magic of this exuberant Carnival celebration.
In the midst of the “greatest show on Earth,” a precious pearl shines, casting its spell through the night and into the early hours at Copa’s celebrated pool, where revelers, still swept up in the festivities, dance until dawn. A true jewel that grants a select crowd access to a mysterious world where the crème de la crème of international society gathers to celebrate Brazil’s joie de vivre. In 2025, an ode to the beauty of the sea promises to refresh the spirits of those who choose the Copacabana Palace as their très chic Carnival destination.
Built by the Guinle family and inaugurated in 1923, the hotel quickly became a landmark with an impressive history of pioneering achievements, attracting the international elite with its Art Deco architecture, grand ballrooms, and lush gardens. The Carnival celebration emerged as a natural extension of this atmosphere. Its first edition, in 1924, already hinted at what was to come: a true hot spot of its time, described by the newspaper O Paiz as “more beautiful than any other.” Over the decades, while indoor Carnival balls gradually faded away, Copa’s festivities continued to evolve without losing their essence: a celebration of beauty, joy, and Rio’s unmistakable allure. From intimate gatherings attended by Brazilian high society in sumptuous attire to extravagant parties featuring international celebrities in elaborate costumes, the ball established itself as one of the most iconic and anticipated ways to celebrate Carnival in the Marvelous City.
After all, anticipation runs high as guests await the announcement of each year’s theme and prepare costumes worthy of the innovative decorations, artistic creations, and countless ways of experiencing life to the fullest. Invitations are highly coveted, and the guest list is carefully curated to ensure that only those who share the same spirit become part of the soirée. Exclusivity is reflected in every detail, from the dress code, which calls for luxurious costumes or black tie, to the menu created by chef Nello Cassese, who leads Cipriani, a restaurant that has held a Michelin star since 2019. A celebration that reflects the brilliance of a glorious past. This is why Rio’s own “Oscar night” remains a timeless classic, surprising guests year after year. In 2025, it invites revelers to immerse themselves in the “Infinite Blue of the Ocean,” celebrating the beauty of the seas through a spectacle of vibrant colors, luxurious textures, and elaborate costumes, while playfully drawing attention to the urgent need for environmental preservation.
Some of the most talented artists are expected to bring this ocean-inspired world to life with performances, DJ sets, breathtaking decorations, and cuisine worthy of a hotel that boasts two Michelin-starred restaurants. So feel free to raise your expectations and anticipate something extraordinary, meticulously prepared by Belmond.
The group, part of the LVMH family, which includes Louis Vuitton, acquired Hotel Cipriani in Venice in 1976, followed by Copa in 1989. It has carefully preserved the precious essence that Copacabana Palace has offered for decades, including its Carnival ball.
A truly unparalleled must! Over more than a century, its festivities have enchanted icons from every era, including Grace Kelly, Princess of Monaco; Brigitte Bardot, the muse of French cinema; and Lady Di, who surrendered to Rio’s magic during an unforgettable evening. But it was not only foreign royalty and international celebrities who left their mark. Brazilian cultural icons such as Carmen Miranda and Tom Jobim were regular guests who delighted in the festivities and appreciated every form of artistic expression embraced by the dreamlike world of the Golden Room, where a queen is crowned at each edition.
The list of Carnival queens and distinguished guests who have walked the nearly 50-meter-long red carpet is both extensive and impressive.
Among those who have worn the crown are Sabrina Sato, Grazi Massafera, Cris Vianna, Isis Valverde, Luiza Brunet, Narcisa Tamborindeguy, and the most recent titleholder, Silvia Braz. The celebrities and bon vivants who have graced the occasion include Jayne Mansfield, who caused a sensation in 1959 with a fashion mishap; Orson Welles, Ginger Rogers, Mary Pickford, Joan Fontaine, Rhonda Fleming, Walter Pidgeon, Lana Turner, Ann Miller, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Kim Novak, Romy Schneider, Kirk Douglas, Rita Hayworth, who even appeared dressed as a traditional Bahian woman, Christian Louboutin, Monica Bellucci, Vincent Cassel, Gerard Butler, and Ian McKellen.
All were immersed in the glamour and allure of Copa, an atmosphere that remains alive to this day.
So allow yourself to dive into this vibrant ambiance, colored by the rare refinements of the present, which can be experienced through all five senses, and by the pulse of a past that reveals the timeless magic of this extraordinary place. Our most heartfelt recommendation is to awaken your sixth sense and embrace moments that will surely become some of the most precious memories of your life. Let the festivities begin and welcome the ocean of possibilities awaiting you on March 1, 2025. À bientôt at 1702 Avenida Atlântica!