carnival in rio de janeiro dates back to the 17th century, when the portuguese nobility held parties and celebrations based on their noble european traditions.

over time, these celebrations absorbed elements specific to indigenous and african culture, and culminated in a unique and highly spectacular blend deeply influenced by afro-brazilian folklore.

carnival in rio de janeiro starts with the mayor of rio giving the key to the city to king momo (rei momo), the king of carnival, but rio de janeiro goes into full party mode at least one week before that - bars are full, clubs are at capacity, and there is party energy everywhere.

during the whole week, hundreds of street parties take place throughout rio de janeiro, called 'blocos' they warm up the city to the parade-competition about to happen.