One major revenue earner for the South American country is its tourism sector, boosted by its beaches and many carnivals. The carnivals have attracted publicity all over the world because of their traditional dances, colourful costumes, beautiful women and the accompanying crowds that grace the street-held carnivals.
Tens of thousands of people gathered on both sides of the imposing venue to watch and sing along as Rio's famous Samba schools brought the five-day festival to a spectacular close.
But in the midst of the all the glitz and glamour, there was also a more serious note to the proceedings last night, with a call for more racial integration in the South American country.
Some Samba groups decided to honor the country's diverse Afro-Brazilian heritage, and one even built a giant Nelson Mandela float in a bid to remind revelers of the African leader's fight for equality.
The carnival kicked off with thousands of performers in fluorescent orange-and-yellow costumes and Halloween-like floats of tarantullas and Jack the Ripper.
Elsewhere, Rio's alcohol-soaked Carnival street parties - known as 'blocos' - were in full swing, with many revelers attending a dedicated 'Tinder-themed' party.
"People go crazy during Carnival and everyone hooks up with as many people as possible," said Fernando de Almeida, a 27-year old web designer who was among several hundred costumed revelers at 'Match Comigo,' which literally translates as 'match with me.'
You can see more photos via MailOnline