PHOTOS: Footballer Ronaldo Strikes Gold At World’s Biggest, Nudest Street Party In Brazil [LOOK]

Carnival season is upon us – which means partygoers taking to the streets in all manner of ridiculous outfits, masks and makeup

Brazillian football legend Ronaldo was the star of a glittering parade in Sao Paulo as revellers the world over were swept away in Carnival fever.

Partygoers took to the streets in their hundreds of thousands decked out in freaky masks, makeup and costumes as part of the annual celebrations in the run up to easter.

Ronaldo was guest of honour at the huge Sao Paulo street party, where five huge floats were displayed, each one representing part of the striker’s career. The superstar was wheeled out atop a glittering float, wearing a shiny golden suit, shirt and tie. He was surrounded by scantily clad dancers and bodyguards, and accompanied by his mother and father.

Meanwhile in Venice, thousands donned creepy white masks and elaborate costumes during the city’s famous celebrations, which date back to the 12th century. Rio’s wild street parties, on the other hand, place less emphasis on fine fabrics – with most hitting the streets wearing as little as possible.

The Carnival festivities in the Tuscan city of Viareggio is renowned throughout Europe for its huge floats. This year, a giant model of John Lennon paraded through the streets, on a Beatles themed float. Carnival is the annual festival, mainly celebrated in Catholic countries, leading up to the season of Lent. Many see the wild street parties of Carnival as a farewell to pleasures of the flesh, before Christians embark on 40 days of abstinence.