Main events

Carnival

Carnival is the biggest event that happens in Rio. The exact dates of the carnival change every year. In 2025, Carnival will be celebrated between 28/02 and 08/03.

The official parade normally takes place during the weekend days. The street celebrations happen during the entire week. Most establishments and companies are closed for the entire week (if they open, it's only on Thursday and Friday).

Pro tip: If you will be in Rio in the weeks before Carnival, there might already be a few celebrations happening around the city. For a month leading up to the official date, there are usually parties and "blocos" happening every weekend.

New Year's Eve

Another really major event that happens in Rio is the New Year's Eve celebration at Copacabana Beach. It is held on New Year's night (31st of December) and is a massive event.

A giant stage is built on the beach and thousands of people gather to count down the new year and watch the fireworks. You can read more about the NYE celebrations in Copacabana here.

Rock in Rio

This is an event that happens every 2 years at the end of September. This giant music festival brings international artists from all over the world. It's a really fun and exciting event, if you happen to be in Rio during RiR, I highly recommend going!

Tickets usually sell out so you should buy them in advance! The last Rock in Rio happened in 2024 so the next edition will be in 2026.

Rio Gastronomia

This is an amazing food event that happens every year in Rio. It brings together the best restaurants in town with special, small degustation menus.

I recommend checking their Instagram for more specific information on dates and venues because this changes every year.

Festa Junina

If you visit Rio during the months of June and July, you will see that a lot of places will be decorated for "Festa Junina". This is a specific celebration that happens all around Brazil during these months and brings special food, music, and costumes.

Rio is not the most traditional city for Festa Junina, but there are a few local events happening in the city to celebrate the date. If you want to attend any, ask your hotel staff and they will be able to recommend the best one.