Millions join the Rio Carnival party Up to two million party-goers filled the streets of downtown Rio de Janeiro on Saturday for the annual Carnival, which is now in its 93rd year. Tourists described the atmosphere as electric. "We are staying outside of the city and we have been brought by a couple of locals," said UK tourist Marie Sykes. And yeah, it is amazing. It has already surpassed all of our expectations. It's brilliant. Organisers said Rio authorities had cut funding for the festival and restricted the usual parade through the city centre. However, Carnival fans who have flown in from all over the world didn't seem to notice. One told euronews the festivities were "the most fun" they had had "in their whole life." More about: Brazil, Carnival, Rio Carnival