figures estimate that 1 out of every 6 rio residents attend the parade each year, which, including all the foreigners and tourists, makes for one big party.

during and after the event, even more parties animate the city from mid afternoon well into the night in all areas of the city.

created in 1962 by the national congress, december 2nd is national samba day - this date is a tribute to all the artists, singers, composers, who have turned samba and carnival into such great expression of brazilian popular culture.