1. White clothing ruled the 1930s to help with high temperatures and lower costs.
2. During the 1950s, costumes began getting smaller, men went without shirts...
...and women opted for bikinis:
3. In the '80s the Sambodromo was built, helping to organize Carnival a bit more:
4. But that didn't stop the street "blocos" from taking place.
5. Even to this day:
6. When it comes to floats, the bigger they are, the better.
7. Sexy does NOT mean naked:
8. But you'll get to see a lot of butts!
9. There's a lot of coordination before the party actually starts:
10. The industry behind carnival is HUGE for the country:
11. Every escola has a flag, and the couple that presents it always have the most elaborate and elegant costumes:
12. It's an honor to dance in front of the bateria:
13. And you can find both celebrities and incredible bodies leading the band:
14. The bahianas are a group of elderly ladies whose role is to turn in circles throughout the parade.
15. Everyone partakes in the parades, regardless of age or gender.
16. The Globeleza is a phenomenon:
17. Who said men can't show skin?
18. Everyone is a star... Yes, including the guys that clean the Sambodromo.
19. And the basic premise is that everyone has to have fun:
20. During Carnival, Rio hosts one of the biggest and best-known gay balls:
21. And there's even a place for dogs to show off their little costumes:
22. Even if you try to avoid Carnival, you probably won't be able to:
Are you ready to enjoy the 2014 Carnival? Listen to all the songs here:
