Some of the sections to look for are the abre-alas, the group of men that march in front of the school with a special coreography, and the famous ala das baianas, the section with women dressed in big round skirts. Each float carries special guests wearing the most luxurious costumes, and they are really a feast to the eyes. Guests may also come topless or stark naked with just a little body paint and lots of glitter, even though complete nudity is not officially allowed. The best looking men and women are hand-picked for these special spots. A cheering crowd gathers outside the Sambadrome to watch the schools concentrate.
Many floats have special effects - a bird with flapping wings, a dragon spitting smoke, etc.
The size is limited by the narrow tree-lined streets that give access to the Sambadrome. Panther '90 Most of the glamorous Carnival kings, queens, princesses, and baianas you see marching in all their glory on the avenue have to work very hard to pay for costumes they will wear for only but a few hours. This is their time to shine, though, and the event is anticipated with pleasure the whole year round. The cool and relaxed atmosphere turned them into a sort of a meeting place for the young and restless - and even the young at heart. Enjoy a draft or have a pizza standing in the street or at a table outdoors.