The Buzios carnival is the center of all social activity in Buzios leading up to Mardi Gras, and it is highly anticipated each year. Traditionally the word "carnival" connotes an upheaval of regular social values and any class systems - and that is definitely what you get to see at the Buzios Brazil carnival.
Everything you have heard or seen on TV is true, so if you would rather spend your Buzios holiday sipping tea and eating cucumber sandwiches, stay away from the carnival. Buzios citizens get dressed up in just about whatever they feel like and enjoy local spirits, exotic and local foods, parades and of course loads of music and samba dancing - if you're up to it.
The whole Buzios carnival can seem a little daunting to most newcomers, so it is always a good idea to pick up a Buzios carnival guide at a local tourism center or at your hotel. In here you will usually find a list of events and dates, and these handy little booklets make it easy to find the restaurants and clubs you want to visit, or the various different events you don't want to miss out on!
Buzios Brazil has a great reputation for being incredibly gay-friendly, and the city turns almost completely gay during the Buzios carnival. This is not to discourage heterosexual visitors, but anyone who is not comfortable with a man in a thong and faux-feathers should keep in mind that Buzios' gay, lesbian and bisexual community rule the streets during carnival Buzios. It is only natural - carnival is essentially about those in the social minority gaining power and being able to do as they please (not to mention eating, drinking and dancing).
During the Buzios carnival you can head down to the beach to catch a game of foot volley, or tour some of the delightful ethnic restaurants and salsa clubs. Most clubs and pubs will offer you "drinks specials", but you better believe that the only people getting a "special deal" are the ones pouring the drinks. If you want to do Buzios on the cheap, stay out of the middle of town during the carnival. If you want to have the time of your life, all you have to do is show up at the Buzios carnival.