lavish costumes and fantastical floats can be seen, and the beat of each school's samba theme is played just as loud and energetically as the first time.

many brazilian locals come out to honor their favorite teams that have worked tirelessly throughout the year, and all schools take this chance to thank everyone who helped them, their fans, and supporters.

with fireworks and huge support from the schools' fans, the champions parade is a joyous and emotional event - and the grand finale of rio's carnaval.

and for those who wish to show another type of support, while the parade of the champions officially starts at 9 pm, as of 7 pm there is a parade of the 'embaixadores da alegria' (ambassadors of joy), a march done by people with special needs.