while the parades in the sambódromo are very clearly physically separated from the audiences, and the is no way to get close to the floats or the performers, the parades of the grupo rio are just the opposite.

being the parades held in a simple avenue, without large stages or barriers, there is a much stronger connection between the performers and the audience - small kiosks all along the road serve food and drinks, and the atmosphere is similar to a small town fair.

access is free, both standing around the parades or if sitting on the small stages set up for the public, so this event is a valuable occasion for families of more limited means for some quality time together.