Brazil: pre-carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro

Video. Brazil: pre-carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro

Thousands of revelers took part in colourful street parties in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday ahead of the famous Carnival.

Thousands of revelers took part in colourful street parties in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday ahead of the famous Carnival.

Though official carnival festivities are only scheduled to begin on February 24, Rio locals and tourists danced in several blocos, or street parties, around the city.

O bloco Me esquece tomou conta do Jardim Botânico, em uma festa linda e criativa! Curta as fotos da folia! #VisitRio#RioCarnaval2017pic.twitter.com/FbmKhjS6w6

— Rio de Janeiro (@riodejaneiro) 12 February 2017

Holding balloons shaped like sea animals and wearing seashells and floats, revelers danced under a scorching sun to the sound of drums and samba music.