The Rio de Janeiro Carnival (Carnaval do Rio) is the world's largest carnival, attracting over two million visitors to the streets of Rio each day during the festivities. It takes place in the days leading up to Ash Wednesday, typically in February or early March. The highlight is the Sambadrome parade, where samba schools compete for the championship title.
Rio Carnival always starts on the Friday before Ash Wednesday and runs through Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday). The date changes each year based on Easter.
The official carnival lasts 5 days, from Friday to Carnival Tuesday, but street parties (blocos) begin weeks before.
The Sambadrome (Sambodromo) is a purpose-built parade ground in Rio where samba schools compete during the carnival championship nights.
Rio Carnival draws an estimated 2 million people to the streets each day, making it one of the world's largest public events.