Rio de Janeiro's Carnaval is a colorful feast of elaborate costumes, lavish floats, and frenetic samba rhythms in preparation for Lent, the 40-day period of penitence and fasting before Easter. Although few people still fast, they certainly know how to feast during this five-day statutory holiday. Preparations for Carnaval start as early as March, when the samba schools choose their theme, write the samba, and begin to design the costumes and floats. By July or August, weekly rehearsals get underway for the big night in February or early March.
Here's how to make the most of Carnaval whether you're in town for the big event, the weeks before and after, or any other time of year.
