Each Samba School is allowed to bring from 6 to 8 floats to the Samba Parade. They play a key role in the performance of schools, and with judges assigned specifically to analyze them. Floats can be really huge, sometimes 10 meters high (about 30 feet). If they are too wide or long, though, they may have problems with the sharp turn from the concentration to the entrance of the samba runway.

Some floats have moving parts, and most are quite sophisticated. They may be motorized, or pushed by men from the community. Floats are populated by floatees (destaques). Their costumes are the most luxurious and expensive. Some are so heavy that they have to be attached to the structure. For contrast, some floats come chock-full of semi-naked beauties. Either way they are always a feast to the eyes!