448th anniversary of the founding of the city of São Sebastião do Rio de Janeiro

Date: March/01
Address: Largo da Carioca - Centro
Description:
Promoters: SARCA - Sociedade Amigos da Rua da Carioca e Adjacências
General Coordination: Roberto Cury

Rio de Janeiro was founded by Estacio de Sá on March 1st, 1565. The city was named after a mistake made by André
Gonçalves, the leader of the expedition of the newly discovered land of Brazil. On January 1st, 1502, the navigator found
a firth, which he thought to be a river mouth, hence naming the city Rio de Janeiro, or the River of January.

This year’s anniversary of the City of Rio de Janeiro features an interesting program, starting on February 28th. On the
first day of celebrations, SARCA (Sociedade Amigos da Rua da Carioca e Adjacências) pays tribute to Marvelous City,
with a concert by the SARCA Band starting at Corcovado Mountain from 11 am onwards. At 12 noon, Father Omar
Raposo, Dean of Christ the Redeemer Sanctuary, will celebrate the City Blessing Ceremony, followed by the slicing of
the cake at 1 pm. The giant cake is 14 feet tall, or 44,8 meters, symbolizing Rio’s 448 years. March 1st celebrations start at 9 am, at Largo da Carioca, with a children’s parade featuring the SARCA Band. At 11 am there will be a concert by Banda Marcial Dragões Iguaçuanos of Colégio Novo Horizonte. A solemn moment is due at 12 noon, with the arrival
of the Pilgrim Statue of St. Sebastian, led by the Archbishop of Rio de Janeiro, Dom Orani João Tempesta, who will
also bless the Marvelous City. At 1 pm, Mayor Eduardo Paes will slice a 146 feet, or 44,8 meter cake, also symbolizing
Rio’s age. Banda do Cordão da Bola Preta plays at 2 pm. The festivities go on rocking with a big ball, led by Bianchini
Orchestra, at 4 pm.