Brazil is an enormous country, with 26 states, covering a land area roughly equal to that of Europe (yes, it’s HUGE). As a tourist, you’ll quickly notice how much the culture can change depending on where you are—whether it’s the food, the accent, or the tourist attractions. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most exciting Brazilian celebrations that include both national holidays and cultural events.
1. Carnival
Carnival is hands down one of the most famous celebrations in Brazil and definitely the most anticipated by most Brazilians. Not only is it a long holiday, but it’s also a time for non-stop joy and parties all over the country. The history of Carnival dates back to the early days of Portuguese colonization, and over the centuries, it evolved into a huge cultural event that combines music, dance, and colorful parades.
Carnival in Brazil is split into two major types: the Sambadrome Parade (Sapucaí) and the Street Carnival (Carnaval de Rua).
If you are planning to come to Brazil during the Carnival, now is the time to plan your trip! The Carnival in 2025 will take place from February 28th to March 5th. If you want more info, read our post Carnival in Brazil 2025: Everything You Need To Know.
Sambadrome Parade (Sapucaí)
When you think of Carnival, you probably imagine the dazzling floats and the beautiful Brazilian women samba dancing down the avenue. That’s the Sambadrome Parade in Rio! The Sambadrome is a massive venue built specifically for the famous samba school parades. It’s an intense competition where samba schools from Rio de Janeiro showcase their performances, which include incredible floats, costumes, and a lot of rhythm. The event usually lasts for two days, and it’s a show you’ll never forget.
If you want to watch the parade, you can get a ticket for the stands, which typically cost around $40-$50 USD for a seat (depending on the day). But if you want a more exclusive experience, you can grab tickets for one of the VIP boxes (Camarotes), which cost about $150-$200 USD or more. These come with extra perks like open bars, food, and better views of the parade. So, if you want to feel like a VIP, this is the way to go.
While Rio de Janeiro’s Sapucaí is the most famous and traditional, São Paulo also has a huge and growing Carnival parade. São Paulo’s parade is gaining more and more attention each year, offering a similar level of spectacle and energy as the one in Rio.
Street Carnival (Carnaval de Rua)
Street parties, or blocos de carnaval, are another big part of Carnival. These spontaneous celebrations can be found in most Brazilian cities, but the biggest and most famous ones are in Salvador, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paulo. The street parades are free, and everyone is invited to join in! Expect crowds, music, dancing, and the famous “trio elétrico,” which is a truck with a sound system and bands that drive through the streets while people follow along, dancing and singing.
If you plan to join the street parties, be sure to keep your belongings safe. It’s easy for pickpockets to blend in during the chaos, so it’s best to bring just what you need in a small zippered bag, worn cross-body style.
2. Festa Junina
Festa Junina is a traditional celebration that takes place in June, during the Brazilian winter. Although it’s not as cold as you might imagine (Brazil’s winters are generally mild), it can get chilly, and you’ll definitely find people gathered around bonfires to keep warm. This festival honors St. John, St. Peter, and St. Anthony, and it’s packed with square dances (forró), bonfires, and delicious foods like pamonha (corn-based treats), canjica (sweet corn), and cuscuz (cornmeal dish). People dress up in traditional “country” clothing, and the whole vibe is a fun and nostalgic trip back to rural Brazil. It’s a mix of food, music, and laughter that brings communities together in a laid-back atmosphere.
3. New Year’s Eve (Réveillon)
New Year’s Eve in Brazil is a super joyful event, especially since it happens right in the middle of summer! The tradition is to wear white (for good luck and peace) and jump over seven waves at the beach to bring in the new year. Most people in Brazil head to the beach for the celebration, and the most famous places to celebrate are in Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, and other coastal cities in the northeast.
In Rio de Janeiro, Copacabana Beach is the place to be. A huge fireworks show lights up the night sky, and parties spill over into the streets. The vibe is electric, and you’ll find music, dancing, and a sense of unity as people from all over the world come together to celebrate.
If you want a more chilled vibe, the northeastern cities, like Fortaleza, Recife, and Salvador, offer great parties by the beach. They’ve really upped their game with big events, concerts, and fireworks, so you’ll have plenty to choose from to ring in the new year.
4. Roda de Samba
Roda de Samba is a Brazilian music tradition where a group of musicians gather to play samba and other Brazilian rhythms. It’s one of the best ways to experience Brazilian culture at its most authentic. Samba is all about the rhythm and connection between musicians, so whether it’s in a small bar or a big event, the energy is contagious.
You can find roda de samba in cities all over Brazil, but the most famous places to enjoy this vibrant experience are in Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Salvador. If you’re in Rio, head to Lapa, a historic neighborhood known for its lively samba scene. There are countless bars and clubs where you can enjoy a spontaneous samba session and feel the pulse of Brazil’s rich musical culture.
5. Festa de Iemanjá
Festa de Iemanjá is one of the most important Afro-Brazilian religious celebrations. It honors Iemanjá, the goddess of the sea, and is celebrated on February 2nd (but celebrations can start earlier in the week). People dress in white, bring flowers, perfumes, and candles to the sea as offerings to Iemanjá. In Salvador, this event is a massive deal, with thousands of people gathering on the beaches to pay tribute. Expect a mix of Afro-Brazilian traditions, music, and dancing. It’s a spiritual and cultural experience that’s both beautiful and moving.
These are just a few of the most exciting celebrations in Brazil, and there’s so much more to discover as you explore this vibrant and diverse country. Whether you’re in the middle of the jungle, on a tropical beach, or in the heart of a bustling city, you’ll find a party waiting for you. So pack your bags, get your dance moves ready, and get ready to join in on some of the most exciting celebrations you’ll ever experience!
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