each year, huge crowds flock to the sambódromo during rio de janeiro's carnival to check out the spectacular parades.

samba schools compete against one other, in an attempt to be crowned champion.

yet, the official carnival parades are a competition where tourists and fans can participate, helping dispute the title as members of rio's best and most famous samba schools .

locals and tourists alike can join their favorite samba school, dress in a lavish costume and participate in the competition by dancing and singing their way down samba avenue.

the most common route to marching in the parade is through purchasing a costume from one of the samba schools, which acts as a 'ticket' to take part.