Brazilian Carnaval Exotica Brings The World’s Best Party Stateside

Can’t make it to Rio this year? LA’s Brazilian Carnaval Exotica is the next best thing.

Around the world, it’s Carnival time, when the pre-Lenten festivals prevalent in areas like Latin America and the Caribbean bring everyday life to a  halt for non-stop festivities. But lets face it — nobody does it bigger and brassier than the Brazilians, who take the celebrations to epic levels on the streets and Sambodromo of Rio de Janeiro and the cobblestones of Salvador de Bahia.

If you’re ready to join the party, but couldn’t make it to Brazil this year, you’re in luck if you happen to be in LA. This Saturday, March 5, the next best thing comes to Southern California, the 11th annual Brazilian Carnaval Exotica. The largest and most extravagant Carnaval on the West Coast, the event has consistently sold out, drawing a crowd of 3000+ for the past 10 years.

Held this year at Club Nokia in LA’s multibillion dollar entertainment complex, LA Live, Brazilian Carnaval Exotica promises to transform the club’s multi-level dance floor into a no-holds-barred festa. As in years past, Carnaval-goers are encouraged to indulge their senses and lose themselves in a pulsating sea of samba, Afro-Brazilian rhythms, sequins, masks and feathers.  And yes, costumes are encouraged. Brazilian food and drinks will also be served to round out the festive vibe.

Entering the Sambodrome, party-goers will be surrounded by the Brazilian beats of Samba and Carnaval Parade dances. On the dance floor, the Brazilian Nites Samba Dancers promise a sensual extravaganza with their elaborate samba steps and sequin micro costumes. More authentic ambiance will come in the form of Capoeira, Brazil’s acrobatic martial arts dance, and dance floor choreography and traditional blocos choreographed by SambaBody’s Fransini Giraldo, in which everyone is invited to participate.

Stoking the Carnaval spirit will be the contagious beats of an All Star band curated by Chalo Eduardo (Sergio Mendes, Santana, Mickey Hart, Ricky Martin) featuring top-notch musicians playing classic Carnaval hits all night long.  Other notable performers include Katia Moraes, Andrea Ferraz, Hector Torres, and Leo Costa. More rhythms will be provided by DJ Chris Brazil, spinning Brazilian beats; a 100-piece drum circle that includes audience participation, and a celebratory video visual environment including a Rio Carnaval simulcast.  Attend and who knows, you may even win the drawing for a free trip to Brazil sponsored by LAN Airlines.

Interested in seeing previous year’s parties? Check out videos here…

The Club Nokia Brazilian Carnaval 2011 is for all ages.  Advance tickets are $40 for general admission ($50 @ door) and $65 for preferred seating ($75 @ door) in the upstairs lounge and an all access pass, group discounts are available by calling (818) 566-1111. Purchase General Admission and Preferred Seating tickets by calling (818) 566-1111 or visit www.BrazilianNites.com or ticketmaster.com.  Club Nokia is located at 800 West Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90015.  Parking on site available for a fee.