LOOK: Revelers flock to Brazil's vibrant Rio Carnival 2026

Revelers are flocking to Rio de Janeiro in Brazail for the annual carnival that began on Friday and will end on Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday.

According to riocarnival.org, "t’s the main festivity in Brazil which earned the distinction of being 'The Greatest Show on Earth.'"

The epicenter of the festival in Rio de Janeiro is the Sambodromo or the Sambadrome where Brazil's top samba schools perform and compete for the title of carnival champion.

France24.com reported that an estimated six million people are expected to join the carnival, a part of Catholic tradition in Brazil, before Lent starts on Ash Wednesday, February 18.

Aside from the carnival ni Rio, several other celebrations are being held in Brazil days before Ash Wednesday such as the Sao Paolo Carnival held in Anhembi Sambodrome.

Revellers take part in the 'Amigos da Onca' block party during a Carnival parade, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil February 14, 2026. REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes

Revellers take part in the 'Amigos da Onca' block party during a Carnival parade, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil February 14, 2026. REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes

Dogs wear a carnival costume at the 'Blocao' dog carnival parade, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, February 14, 2026. REUTERS/Tita Barros.

Revelers from Estrela do Terceiro Milenio school perform during the Carnival parade at Anhembi Sambadrome in Sao Paulo, Brazil February 15, 2026. REUTERS/Jean Carniel

Revellers from Tom Maior school perform during the Carnival parade at Anhembi Sambadrome in Sao Paulo, Brazil, February 15, 2026. REUTERS/Jean Carniel

Revelers from the Camisa Verde e Branco school perform during a Carnival parade at Anhembi Sambadrome in Sao Paulo, Brazil February 15, 2026. REUTERS/Jean Carniel