The São Paulo Carnival scene is buzzing with anticipation as the vote count for the Access Group 2, considered the third division of the city’s celebrated carnival, is scheduled for this Sunday, October 8, 2025. Starting at 5 PM local time, the event will take place at the Fábrica do Samba, situated in the western part of the São Paulo capital, marking a pivotal moment for several traditional samba schools vying for advancement.
This critical session will decide the fate of ten samba schools, all competing intensely for one of two coveted spots in the Access Group 1 for the 2026 Carnival season. The stakes are equally high at the other end of the spectrum, as the two lowest-scoring schools face the prospect of relegation to the Special Group of Neighborhoods, an experience that will see them parade in Butantã.
The outcome of this apuração not only shapes the competitive landscape for the upcoming year but also carries significant cultural weight for the communities represented by each agremiação.
The high stakes of Access Group 2
The Access Group 2 represents a vital pathway within the São Paulo Carnival hierarchy, offering schools the chance to climb closer to the prestigious Special Group. For many, a promotion is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and significant investment from their communities.
Conversely, relegation can be a disheartening blow, forcing schools to regroup and rebuild with renewed determination to reclaim their position. The emotional intensity surrounding this vote count is palpable, reflecting the passion inherent in carnival culture.
Traditional schools’ resilient performances
The parades for Access Group 2 took place on Saturday, October 7, 2025, with several historically significant samba schools gracing the runway. Institutions such as Unidos do Peruche, Morro da Casa Verde, X-9 Paulistana, and Imperador do Ipiranga showcased their elaborate themes and vibrant performances.
Despite heavy rainfall that impacted attendance, these traditional agremiações demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment. Their strong presence and rich histories add an extra layer of narrative to this year’s competition, as many fans hope to see these established names return to higher divisions.
The challenging weather conditions tested the resolve of both performers and the limited audience. However, the spirit of carnival endured, ensuring that the elaborate floats, intricate costumes, and infectious samba rhythms were still delivered with passion.
Viewer access and digital broadcast
For fans unable to attend the Fábrica do Samba in person, the entire vote count will be accessible from anywhere. The official YouTube channel of Liga SP will provide a live broadcast of the event, ensuring that enthusiasts and supporters can follow every score in real-time.
This digital accessibility broadens the reach of the São Paulo Carnival, allowing a wider audience to engage directly with the outcomes that will shape the 2026 season. The live stream will capture all the drama as each note is revealed, from the initial readings to the final standings.
The weather’s impact on parade attendance
The Saturday parade night was marked by strong rain, which regrettably affected public turnout at the Fábrica do Samba. While entry to the grandstands was free, the inclement weather conditions deterred a significant portion of potential spectators, resulting in partially empty stands.
Despite the meteorological challenges, the schools pushed forward, delivering their presentations with unwavering energy and dedication. The performers, undeterred by the rain, maintained their vibrant displays, highlighting the deep-seated commitment to their art and community.
Progression and relegation mechanics
The competitive structure of the São Paulo Carnival is rigorously defined, with clear criteria for advancement and demotion between groups. For Access Group 2, two schools will earn the right to move up to Access Group 1 for the 2026 Carnival, a significant step toward the elite Special Group.
The remaining schools will either maintain their position within Access Group 2 or face the disheartening reality of relegation. The two lowest-scoring schools will descend to the Special Group of Neighborhoods, where they will participate in parades held in the Butantã district.
This system ensures a dynamic and competitive environment, where every school’s performance is crucial. The detailed judging process evaluates various aspects, including theme, samba plot, costumes, floats, and overall harmony.
The decisions made on Sunday will set the stage for intense preparations and renewed ambitions for all schools involved, defining their trajectory within the larger carnival universe for the coming years.
A look ahead to the 2026 carnival
The results from the Access Group 2 vote count are crucial for establishing the initial lineup for the 2026 São Paulo Carnival, setting the competitive tone for the next year. With promotions and relegations now determined, schools will immediately begin planning their strategies, themes, and presentations for what promises to be another spectacular season.
