Banda Mole returns to its original parade format in 2026

After 51 years, Banda Mole from Belo Horizonte will bring back its traditional carnival parade along Avenida Afonso Pena.

Banda Mole, the most traditional pre-carnival block in Belo Horizonte, announced its return to the original format for the 2026 edition. The event will once again parade through Avenida Afonso Pena on February 7, the Saturday before carnival. The starting point will be the entrance of the Parque Municipal, from where the procession will continue to Praça Sete.

Founded in 1975 in the Lagoinha neighborhood, Banda Mole became a symbol of Belo Horizonte’s carnival, known for its irreverence, diversity, and revival of classic marchinhas. The return to the parade format reinforces its roots and pays tribute to the city’s authentic street carnival culture.

“Given the exponential growth of Belo Horizonte’s street carnival, we believe this is the ideal time to return to the parade format. Banda Mole is once again a true carnival block, celebrating our tradition through the marchinhas that are the soul of our party,” said Luiz Mário Ladeira (Jacaré), founder and president of the block.

“By returning to our parade roots, we are not only reviving the Banda Mole’s origins but also creating opportunities for street vendors, who will now be able to sell freely along the route, strengthening the local economy and the inclusive spirit of Belo Horizonte’s carnival,” noted Polly Paixão, president of the Liga Belorizontina de Blocos de Rua and producer of Banda Mole.

The 2026 edition will honor the block’s motto — irreverence, respect, and joy — with performances by the Banda Mole band and invited artists on the trio elétrico. Full details will be announced soon.

Service — Banda Mole 2026

Date: Pre-carnival Saturday, February 7, 2026

Starting point: Parque Municipal entrance (Avenida Afonso Pena)

Route: Avenida Afonso Pena to Praça Sete

Time: To be announced