Rio Carnival

Probably the most famous party on the planet, the Rio Carnival is a sure bet if you're willing to let it all hang out and get down with millions of performers and spectators.

Carnival festivities in Brazil began in 1723, when Portuguese immigrants introduced informal parties, largely involving the throwing of water and mud, which often ended up in street brawls. As time went on things became significantly more civil, and by the early 20th century samba had emerged as a unifying cultural force. The parade these days is made up of many samba schools, each one dressed according to a theme, with accompanying music, floats and elaborate costumes. Along with the locals who attend the event, organisers estimate that the carnival attracts some half a million spectators from across the world every year, bringing the total number of people in the streets each day up to around two million. That’s some party!