the annual sambadrome parades are attended by thousands of local and international spectators each year, as the city's best samba school compete against each other for the judges approval, victory and ultimately, for carnival glory of their beloved schools, with samba being one of the main criteria.

similarly traditional and entertaining, the quadrilha is an entertaining and fun group dance associated with the yearly festa junina, also known as st john's day or midusmmer. this style of dance originated in the dance halls and salons of the european aristocracy during the 18th century, and the quadrilha itself, performed by farmers and workers during the exuberant celebrations, is said to have become somewhat of a parody of the ruling class. nowadays it is less controversial and above all it a lot of fun to participate - a master of ceremonies calls out various moves and the dancing party follows his instrutions.

in another annual event, each autumn Rio de Janeiro hosts Hip Hop Kemp - H2K - a hugely popular international urban dance event with workshops, performances, parties and competitions,  showcasing national and international talent in the main theatres of Rio. The first installment of the event dates back to 2011, and is now one of the largest urban dance events in Latin America, bringing together national and international professionals, as well as amateurs. Rio H2K's mission is promoting a healthy and mutually beneficial relationship between the performers and their supporters, as well as democratizing access to urban art forms.