Mayor Eduardo Paes on Friday officially opened the world’s largest carnival by traditionally handing the key of the city to the carnival king Momo.
As a result, Rio de Janeiro will be completely ruled by the party for the next few days – and it is really long-awaited because two carnivals have been affected by the pandemic. Add to that concerns about the polarizing presidential election in October.
— It is with great joy, celebrating life and democracy, I have the honor of handing over the key of the city to King Momo, says the carnival-loving mayor.
King Momo – this year his name is Djferson Mendes da Silva – is chosen in a kind of competition where charisma, party spirit and samba skills are rewarded.
In the official carnival, samba schools compete in parading through a large arena. The unofficial carnival has already been going on for weeks with massive street parties called “blocos.”