Brazil: pre-carnival festivities in Rio de Janeiro

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.

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.