Members of the Bright Star of Bethlehem group paraded through Morro da Formiga, a favela in the Muda sub-district of Grande Tijuca, in Rio de Janeiro’s north zone. Dressed in colourful costumes, they moved to the steady beat of drums as residents watched from doorways and balconies.
The parade is part of the Folia de Reis tradition linked to Epiphany, which recalls the biblical visit of the three magi. From Christmas through to 20 January, revellers go from house to house, particularly in poorer neighbourhoods, bringing music and prayers while collecting donations to support communal meals.
