Rio Carnival 2010 PHOTOS: The Most Over-The-Top Moments

Rio Carnival 2010 PHOTOS: The Most Over-The-Top Moments

Rio Carnival is once again rocking Brazil in all its outrageous, over-the-top glory.

The carnival, like Mardi Gras, is a pre-Lent party, designed to get some fun in before 40 days of sacrifice and abstinence. The event dates back to 1723. This year's carnival kicked off Saturday the 13th.

Despite notable difficulties this year, not least the stifling heat (106 Fahrenheit on Tuesday), dancers and revelers put on a spectacular, if sweaty, show.

Below are some of our pics of the floats, costumes, and samba schools performing in the 'Sambadrome.' Let us know what you think best shows off the carnival spirit.

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