The Rio de Janeiro Carnival is an annual festival held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, typically during the week leading up to Ash Wednesday. The festival is one of the largest and most famous carnivals in the world, attracting millions of tourists from around the globe each year. The carnival features elaborate and colorful parades, music, dancing, costumes, and street parties.

The highlight of the Rio Carnival is the parade of the Samba Schools, where samba schools from all over Rio de Janeiro compete against each other in a grand display of music, dance, and costumes. Each school has thousands of participants and puts on a massive performance that lasts for hours, with huge floats, drumming groups, and dancing.

In addition to the samba school parades, there are also street parties, known as "blocos," that take place throughout the city. These parties feature live music, food and drinks, and an atmosphere of excitement and celebration.

Overall, the Rio Carnival is a vibrant and exciting event that showcases the best of Brazilian culture and traditions. Whether you are a local or a visitor, it is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.