In pictures: Rio Carnival

Brazilians have been dancing the last few nights away in this year's Rio de Janeiro carnival, which celebrates the 500th anniversary of the discovery of Brazil.

King of Carnival 2000 or "Rei Momo" Alex Oliveira with Rio mayor, the Carnival Queen, and Princesses of Carnival

Suzana Werner, former girlfriend of Brazilian soccer star Ronaldo, dances for the Grande Rio samba school

Many areas of Rio started celebrating in February

A dancer of the Mocidade Independiente de Padre Miguel samba school blows fire

Fireworks light up the sky as floats parade the streets

Women dressed as clowns parade the streets of Rio

A worker tends to a float made out of recycled bottles