Thanks for joining us at the 2026 Carnaval Parade!
Join an award-winning, beginner-friendly dance community. Take weekly classes, perform at Carnaval, or bring the energy of Brazil to your next event.
Stop by a class or sign up to receive info and announcements
Learn Brazilian Samba in San Francisco
Join the Sambaxé community
Discover Brazilian samba in a welcoming community. No experience needed. Come dance, make friends, and experience the joy of Carnaval!
Sambaxé (Sam-Ba-Shay) is an inclusive, Brazilian-inspired music & dance company based in San Francisco. Founded by Creative Director and choreographer, Raffaella Falchi-Macias and Musical Director, Alfie Macias, we’re celebrating 20+ years of sharing Brazilian culture through samba no pé dance classes, percussion classes, performances, and music and dance retreats.
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Open Level Samba Classes
Performance Workshops
Private Samba Lessons
San Francisco Carnaval Parade
Bay Area Community Performances
Private Event Performances
Youth Drumming
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Check out our classes
All-levels classes are held at ODC in San Francisco on Thursday evenings. True beginners are welcome!
Raffa also offers performance workshops through ODC Dance Commons. See ODC for updates. -
Join us for Carnaval
Carnaval San Francisco hosts a Grand Parade over the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend each year. We love sharing the celebration with newcomers, including kids in our community. Find out how to get involved and join us in the Carnaval Parade!
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Support our mission
Raffa’s mission is that no one is turned away from participating in Carnaval due to finances. Donations help us fund participation for low-income and youth members, so that sharing this cultural experience is not cost-prohibitive. Your donation allows us to share the gift of Brazilian dance in the Bay Area!
