Brazil is famous for many things beginning with its exotic beaches, stunning rainforest, and diverse cities. But along with these, it is also culturally rich and has much more to offer. Various cultural events and festivals are celebrated in Brazil, and attending one of these can be a feast for travelers. So let’s begin by listing the top 7 of these captivating festivals which would make your venture much more memorable and enjoyable.
Carnaval, Rio de Janeiro & Salvador
Carnaval being the most famous festival in Brazil pulls millions of people to it every year. The carnival in Rio de Janeiro is the world’s most spectacular event that takes place at the iconic beaches and sites. These sites are transformed into festivities for epic parades and euphoric street parties. Almost 2.5 million people attend the carnival out of which 1.5 million are tourists. This incredible festival full of parades, culture, excitement, public parties, and celebrations, takes place in the mid of February. Carnival is the biggest week-long party in the world and if you are looking for an enthralling experience this carnival is a must-attend. The carnival of Salvador is more of a participatory event.
Festa Junina, Northern Brazil
The festival of Festa Junina taking place throughout June, in the cities up and down the north coast of Brazil is the largest celebration in Brazil after the Carnival. This event is held to make prayers to the three central saints for the plentiful harvest and also offer gratitude for the past abundance. Wherever in the north, you get to experience the event you get to have insight into the rich culture of the north through cultural dances, live music, fireworks display, and regional customs.
Amazonas festival of Opera, Manaus
Another beautiful festival that we will be discussing here is Amazonas de Opera. This festival takes place in Manaus Brazil for a few weeks each April and May. As the name suggests this festival celebrates music. Some of the world’s finest ballet dancers and opera performers venture into the Amazon for this fest enthralling the audience with their captivating performances. The magnificent Teatro Amazonas is one of the defining features of the historic city of Manaus and the center of this grand event.
Festival de Cachaça, Paraty
Festival de Cachaça is held in the beautiful town of Paraty which is located at a distance of a few kilometers from Rio de Janeiro. This festival celebrated in August is the highlight of the town. Normally a laid-back town, Paraty comes alive for this event. This festival is held to celebrate Brazil’s national sugar cane liquor. The local Brazilian samba and forro dancing and local food you get to taste at the event enhance your experience to another level. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the local culture and the genuine parting spirit of the Brazilian festivities, August is the perfect time for your visit.
Oktoberfest, Blumenau
If you want to have the taste of Germanic festivities in Brazil then Oktoberfest in Blumenau, held for 18 days in October, is the place to be. This event is celebrated about the 19th century germanic roots, that incorporated a large European community in this region. This little town can easily be mistaken for a German town. Oktoberfest is the world’s second-biggest beer festival held every year in October in the town of Blumenau. Every year nearly 700,000 people take part in this celebration. The partying spirit along with the traditional germanic cuisine and large mugs of Bavarian beer are the highlights of the event.
Brazilian Grand Prix, São Paulo
The Brazilian Grand Prix which takes place in Sao Paulo in mid-November is another one of the grand events held in Brazil. Every year, The Brazilian Grand Prix (Formula 1 Brazil) produces some of the most exciting moments of the F1 season. Sao Paulo is one of the largest cities in the world and it has a lot to offer to the traveler beginning with a grand shopping experience, exquisite dining, and amazing nightlife. This paired with the Brazilian Grand Prix makes it an incredible trip.
Reveillon, Rio de Janeiro
The festival of Reveillon which is celebrated around New Year is a religious affair, which has its roots in the Candomble beliefs. Thanks are offered to the Iemaja, the goddess and protector of the sea. Locals are seen dressed in whites and are seen offering gifts to the goddess tossing them into the sea. The Reveillon is centered around the Copacabana, where the Cariocas gather with family and friends and enjoy samba to the beat of live music along with traditional food.
Final Words
The experience of attending one of these colorful and enchanting events makes your trip to Brazil thoroughly memorable. And if one is planning to visit Brazil, definitely keeping the dates and months of these events in mind is a must. Planning a trip incorporating some of these most exuberant and vibrant events would make your trip truly unforgettable.
