Events DC announced Thursday it will return to Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival this month at the invitation of the Rio state government. The District’s convention and sports authority aims to strengthen cultural ties between the two cities.
The partnership focuses on boosting international tourism in Washington and follows a cultural exchange last October.
Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates will lead the delegation, which includes District artists and musicians who participated in the previous program.
“Our partnership is showcasing the vibrant arts and culture of Washington, D.C. on the world stage,” Gates said.
The group will perform Friday at Bar da Laje, a cultural venue in a favela that has become a hub for community development.
Musician Malik DOPE, a former “America’s Got Talent” semifinalist, and his go-go band will perform Saturday at the Morro de Pinto Neighborhood Parade, collaborating with local musicians. The band will also join the Bloco Pinto Sarado parade.
The performances will take place near a mural created by D.C. artists Gabriel Lemos, My Ly and Aniekan Udofia in partnership with Rua Walls in October. The artists will return to Rio for this year’s exchange.
The collaboration began in February 2024 when Gates attended Rio’s Festival of the Diaspora, where she announced plans to invest in training future hospitality and tourism leaders in Rio.