every year rio de janeiro attracts millions of tourists for its carnival celebrations.

the parades within the sambódromo are known throughout the world for their spectacular costumes, energetic dancing and vibrant colors.

the sambódromo is not the only venue for parades - in fact, one could say that the entire city rio de janeiro itself becomes a venue.

during carnival week there are over 400 different street parades known as blocos, and this number grows every year. the entire event is rich in social meaning.

these blocos may seem like unrestrained debauchery and revelry, and in some ways they are, but there is also a deeper meaning behind them.