"Rio Carnival 2024: King of Misrule Declares Official Opening"

The Carnival extravaganza has kicked off in Brazil with the coronation of King Momo in Rio de Janeiro, marking the beginning of the five-day revelry. The mayor officially declared Carnival 2024 open, and festivities will last through to February 14, with an estimated 49 million people across Brazil and 200,000 foreigners participating. The key ceremony has been made an annual official event, obliging future mayors to participate, and King Momo is charged with presiding over the festivities and promoting the joy of partygoers.