Travel
13:55, 03-Mar-2019
Soak in the festive vibes at Rio Carnival 2019
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A grand carnival kicked off in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Friday, sweeping the city with revelry.
The glorious Sambadrome Parades, involving hundreds of street parties, giant floats, grotesque costumes, and numerous revelers make it one of the most interesting and fun events in the world.
A street party called "Minha Luz e de LED" (My light is LED) was held on the first night, attracting thousands of people who decorated their costumes with glowing LED lights.
Revelers gather at a street party called "Minha Luz e de LED" (My light is LED) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, March 1, 2019. /VCG Photo
Revelers gather at a street party called "Minha Luz e de LED" (My light is LED) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, March 1, 2019. /VCG Photo
Revelers gather at a street party called "Minha Luz e de LED" (My light is LED) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, March 1, 2019. /VCG Photo
Revelers gather at a street party called "Minha Luz e de LED" (My light is LED) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, March 1, 2019. /VCG Photo
Revelers gather at a street party called "Minha Luz e de LED" (My light is LED) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, March 1, 2019. /VCG Photo
Revelers gather at a street party called "Minha Luz e de LED" (My light is LED) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, March 1, 2019. /VCG Photo
The mix of cultural diversity and Brazilian swing rhythms is what makes the Rio Carnival so special. The electrifying energy and exhilaration are shared among Cariocas and visitors from all corners of the globe.
It is said that the carnival dates back to the time when ancient Greeks and Romans originally held feasts to honor the god of wine. The first Rio Carnival in history was held in 1723 with the following years witnessing continuous changes in its concepts and forms.
The 1840s saw the newly-introduced masquerade carnival balls, and it wasn't until 1917 that samba music was integrated to the carnival celebrations. Now it has become an annual event that takes place before Lent.
This year, the main parades are scheduled to be held on March 3 and 4.