Bia Lula to Shine as Highlight of Acadêmicos de Niterói in 2026 Rio Carnival

Bia Lula, granddaughter of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, is set to be a prominent figure in the 2026 Rio Carnival as one of the highlights for the Acadêmicos de Niterói samba school. She recently visited the school's barracão (workshop) in the Cidade do Samba, Rio de Janeiro, showcasing her active involvement ahead of the grand event.

The Acadêmicos de Niterói will make its highly anticipated debut in the Special Group of the 2026 Carnival. Their chosen theme, "Do Alto do Mulungu Surge a Esperança: Lula, o Operário do Brasil," pays tribute to President Lula’s inspiring journey from his humble beginnings in the sertão of Pernambuco to becoming Brazil's president. This narrative will be central to the school's presentation, with Bia Lula playing a key role in embodying this legacy.

The presence of Bia Lula underscores the cultural and personal connections woven into the Carnival spectacle, as the celebration honors one of Brazil's most influential political figures through rich samba school traditions. Her participation is not only symbolic but represents a blending of politics, heritage, and popular cultural expression unique to the Carnival.

According to coverage from F5 Folha de S.Paulo, the excitement around the Acadêmicos de Niterói’s Special Group debut has been building, with preparations well underway. Bia Lula’s engagement with the school during this preparatory phase highlights her commitment and the significance of this tribute.

As the 2026 Rio Carnival approaches, anticipation grows around how the Acadêmicos de Niterói will interpret and celebrate President Lula’s story, with Bia Lula’s role adding emotional weight and visibility to the performance. The event promises to be a memorable homage blending politics, family, and samba artistry in one of Brazil’s most iconic cultural festivals.