STORY: It’s just a symbolic storyline. But this year, for many people in Rio de Janeiro, it means so much more. Because after several years with Corona requirements and cancellations, carnival can finally be celebrated again without restriction and with all the trimmings. And with the handover of the symbolic key to the so-called King Momo on Friday, the world-famous carnival festivities were officially heralded in Rio. Exuberant and numerous, the people came together in the streets of the city. And also many tourists from all over the world could be seen there. The party lasts five days and takes place in many different locations. One of the most iconic arenas is the Rio Sambodrome, where elaborate parades of the samba schools are shown and at the end winners are to be chosen in several categories. Locals and authorities alike hope this year’s carnival will help give the city a little boost to its economy. Because the corona pandemic has hit many sectors of the economy, such as tourism, badly. Experts estimate that the activities related to the carnival celebrations could flush the equivalent of around one billion euros into the coffers. And that alone would be a real reason for some people to celebrate.