Rio Carnival (Brazil)

Held every February or March before Lent, Rio Carnival is the world’s largest and most famous festival, attracting millions of locals and visitors to the streets of Rio de Janeiro. The city bursts with color, music, and dance as samba schools compete in dazzling parades at the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, showcasing elaborate costumes, floats, and choreography. Beyond the official parades, hundreds of free street parties (“blocos”) take over every neighborhood, offering nonstop samba, joy, and celebration for nearly a week.

It’s a spectacular expression of Brazilian culture, rhythm, and community spirit — a once-in-a-lifetime experience of music, energy, and carnival magic.