Rio Carnival: World's Biggest Festival Explodes with Samba, Street Parties, and Tunnel Raves

• Rio de Janeiro's Carnival is the world's largest festival, attracting over 2 million people annually between February and March.
• The Brazilian carnival, celebrated from February 13 to 21 this year, is a pre-Lent indulgence, fostering expression, community, and cultural pride.
• Originating from Portuguese Entrudo festivals in 1723, Carnival evolved by blending European traditions with African influences.
• Samba, introduced by Afro-Brazilian communities in the early 20th century, transformed Carnival, leading to organized competitions at Rio's Sambadrome.
• Beyond the Sambadrome, Carnival features blocos, Copacabana beach parties, and tunnel raves, making it a citywide celebration.

Why It Matters: Rio Carnival is a unique, massive celebration blending history, culture, samba, and citywide revelry.