Can there be anything more festive, more sensual and fiery than a Rio Carnaval?

You don’t have to go to Brazil to experience this sensational festival considered to be one of the greatest shows on Earth. From March 2 to 6, the Power Plant Mall at Rockwell will pulsate with a distinct Brazilian rhythm as it celebrates Brasilipinas 2011 –  Conexao Rio-Manila, a festival that fuses Brazilian and Filipino cultures in one colourful celebration. This is the third consecutive celebration of Brasilipinas in Rockwell Center – the result of a colourful fusion of Filipino and Brazilian cultures the past two years.

The Brazilian beat starts March 2-3 with samba, batucada and capoeira workshops offered for free at The Rockwell Tent from 6 to8 p.m. The public is invited to join the workshops by registering online at [email protected] or at the venue itself. The workshops will have their Capoeira Batizado (graduation ceremony) on March 6 at The Rockwell Tent.

March 4, the day the Carnaval actually starts in Rio de Janeiro — is also the day that Rockwell gets high on festivities at The Rockwell Tent as Escola Brasileira de Capoeira Philippines, the Embassy of Brazil Manila, Power Plant Mall and Havaianas open the doors of the Carnaval to the public by 8:30 p.m.

Watch the parade unfold and Planet Zips do their poi dance at 8:30 p.m. to set the mood. Savor the taste of Brazil as Chef Carla Abaya serves up famous Brazilian dishes like Feijoada (stewed black beans and pork) and Brigadeiros (chocolate truffles), while Havaianas treats every one to cocktails at the Havaianas Beach Bar. Feel the Brazilian rhythm through bossa electronica and music by Brigada, Escola de Samba and Nyko Maca. Watch Escola Brasiliera de Capoeira Philippines team express passion and skill through Brazil’s most popular dance-cum-martial arts form of the day.

Renowned designer Rhett Eala joins the celebration of Brazilian-Filipino friendship through Brasilipinas Limited Edition shirts sold exclusively at their Collezione C2 Power Plant Mall branch.

The revelry and gaiety of the Carnaval has been held each year as a last hurrah before the somber period of Lent sets in. Celebrate the best of Brazil and this wonderful tradition at The Rockwell Tent. Admission is free.

For reservations and more information, visit www.facebook.com/brasilipinas.

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This is a friendly reminder from Rockwell Center