AP PHOTOS: A Carnival day in Brazil, from a morning street party to an evening samba parade

A typical Carnival day in Brazil starts around 7 a.m. , when the first blocos — as the free street parties are known — start their loud and colorful musical journey down the city’s streets.

Drummers, stilt walkers, trumpet players and other performers attract thousands of followers.

In Rio alone, the city has authorized 500 street parties this year .