Live like you’re in Rio de Janeiro every day of the week — or just celebrate like Brazilians do during the annual Carnival happening this month in San Diego. It’s a party every year at the annual San Diego Brazil Carnival — a celebration that is all about laughter, music, dancing and great food. The March 5 event at the 4th & B Showcase Theater will be no exception. This year’s edition will pay tribute to the Brazilian state of Amazonia, and will include a celebration that honors the green trend. Rio de Janeiro native Christine Portella has been creating the San Diego Brazil Carnival for 19 years, and this year’s March celebration at the venue at 345 B St. will include all the fanfare that has been attracting international audiences for nearly two decades. “This is my baby,” Portella said. “Being from Rio, Carnival is such a big part of our life.” San Diego has been attracting international residents for years, and now everyone can bask in the rainforests of Rio in our own backyard. Watch spectacular dancing from local belly dancers, capoeira performances from acrobatic martial art teams, Brazilian musicians and dance music from local DJs. Portella brought the festival to Southern California to bring Rio de Janeiro’s joy of life to San Diego’s beaches. “Brazilian culture is music, dance and food. Beyond that is the joy for life — period,” said Portella. “There doesn’t need to be a special occasion to celebrate.” The main attraction is always the giveaway — a round trip to Brazil —but that comes later in the evening. Dancing, music and all-around Brazilian-inspired good times will lead up to the drawing. San Diego Brazil Carnival is produced by Brazilian Productions, which has been bringing the Brazilian lifestyle to San Diego since 1988. As one of the largest authentic Carnival events in the state, the true nature of San Diego Brazil Carnival comes to life due in part to Portella’s native roots. There’s an endless supply of energy at the San Diego Brazil Carnival.