Rio de Janeiro Events, Things to Do and Festivals

(Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

Rio de Janeiro is host to a large number of local festivals throughout the year. It is worth having a look to see what events are on before you arrive in Rio de Janeiro, so that you can plan your time wisely while you are here.

Without doubt, the most famous festival of the year is the Rio Carnival. This event is renowned around the world and sees millions heading here to revel in the fun and laughter. Other popular things to do include the bicycle race Rio Circuit, Easter, Victory Day and Independence Day.

Rio de Janeiro Calendar of Festivals and Events 2014 / 2015

January

• New Year's Day - New Year's Eve sees people take to the streets to begin the countdown. The city is home to one of the biggest street parties in the world, which normally finishes at Copacabana Beach and lasts until dawn

February

• Carnival - Rio Carnival is without doubt the premier event of the year. Thousands of party-goers arrive from all over the world hoping to get a taste of this Latino fiesta. During this time, businesses are closed as locals and tourists take to the streets with one thing on their mind - a party. As well as street parties, there are also parades, live music and an abundance of food and drink stalls

March

• Rio Circuit - this is one of the main sporting events in the city. The cycling circuit runs along the city's coast and over mountains, finishing up by looping back on itself in the city centre. It attracts people from all across the world and sees the locals turn out in droves

April

• Holy Week - this religious time can fall in March or April and includes celebrations for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter and Resurrection Sunday. The city goes to Mass and family dinners are enjoyed
• Rio Boat Show - this annual event showcases some of the most expensive yachts in the world. Many come to window shop, while a lucky few come to purchase

May

• Victory Day - the president of the republic oversees this event, which features celebrations in honour of the Allied victory of WWII

June

• June Bonfire Festival - there are a number of bonfire and fireworks nights held in June including the following feasts - St. Anthony (June 13th), St. John (June 24th) and St. Peter (June 29th). The bonfires are held in churches and squares throughout the city
• Rio de Janeiro Marathon - mid-June, this running race, like other marathons, sees cheering supporters take to the streets to offer encouragement. If the weather is good it is an especially great day, as there are food and drink stalls found in abundance and a great atmosphere during and after the race

July

• Rio Sport Show - a good crowd turn up to this annual event in July, to check out the latest sporting equipment found on the market. There are fitness professionals to gain advice from as well as gym owners and personal trainers. This is the place to be if fitness is your thing

August

• Folklore Day - with thanks to William John Thoms' folklore books, Folklore Day each August celebrates the many stories that are told about certain aspects of life in Rio, or about certain buildings or times in history

September

• Independence Day - September 7th, Brazil's Independence Day sees the locals of Rio come out in force to make the most of their day off work. Street parties take place, while the more sedate like to relax, catch up on housework or have big family gatherings

October

• Children's Day - the whole of October is dedicated to children. Entertainment is put on throughout the city and fun and games are had every weekend. However, the main day of celebration is October 12th. This is Children's Day and sees the little ones of the city swamped in presents and love

November

• Culture and Science Day - another day aimed at embracing local culture, on this occasion a number of events take place in the capital, such as exhibits, presentations and open days at museums. However, the day is really in honour of Brazilian statesman Rui Barbosa, the 'Eagle of the Hague'

December

• Christmas Celebrations - throughout December, there's no chance of a white Christmas in Rio as it is the height of summer. However, the festivities are still celebrated with as much enthusiasm as anywhere else in the world. Instead of Christmas fir trees, palm trees are decorated and instead of snow, there's sand. However, Santa is dressed in his traditional outfit and churches have nativity scenes as part of their displays