Kids’ block Charanguinha do França parades on February 21, turning downtown São Paulo into a musical and playful carnival space.
The Charanguinha do França, the children’s version of São Paulo’s iconic Charanga do França, returns in 2026 for its sixth parade. Starting at 10 a.m. from Praça Rotary in Vila Buarque, the block transforms the city center into a joyful space for families to celebrate together.
A carnival on children’s level
Sponsored by CAIXA and produced by Jasmim Produção Cultural, the parade is fully acoustic—brass and percussion players walk among the crowd with no sound trucks or stages. Everything happens on the ground, creating a safe and engaging environment for children.
The repertoire blends classic samba tunes, carnival marches, and original songs. Between songs, costumed musicians and stilt performers lead playful games like “freeze” and “jump,” encouraging creativity, movement, and collective joy.
A story born from family
Created in 2019 by saxophonist Thiago França, the Charanguinha was inspired by the birth of his daughter Eva in 2018. What began as a family tradition became an annual street celebration that introduces children to São Paulo’s carnival culture.
“Carnival helps people connect with their city. When that starts in childhood, it changes how we relate to public spaces,” says Thiago França.
Throughout the year, the group performs in venues such as SESC, the Museum of the Portuguese Language, and Centro Cultural São Paulo, strengthening access to culture from an early age.
Service
Charanguinha do França – Kids’ Carnival Block
Date: February 21, 2026 (Saturday)
Time: From 10 a.m.
Place: Praça Rotary, Vila Buarque – Downtown São Paulo
Admission: Free – All ages
Sponsorship: CAIXA and Government of Brazil – Supported by CAIXA, supported by the Government of Brazil.
Photo: Publicity
