Réveillon (New Year's Eve at Copacabana Beach) (December 31 – January 1). Described as the largest New Year's celebration in the world. Attracts approximately 2 million people annually to Copacabana Beach. Features a fireworks display (~12–16 min) launched from barges at sea, plus live…
Rio Carnival (Carnaval do Rio de Janeiro) (February–March (Friday before Lent through Ash Wednesday); 2026 dates: February 13–21, 2026 per LIESA (Liga Independente das Escolas de Samba)). World-famous annual Carnival. First documented in Rio in 1723. Modern samba school parade format began 1929. Main Grupo Especial samba school parades held at the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí (capacity 72,500),…
Rock in Rio (September (recent editions); 2026 dates: September 4–7 and September 11–13, 2026 at Barra Olympic Park). One of the world's largest music festivals. Founded by Roberto Medina; inaugural edition January 11–20, 1985 in Rio de Janeiro (City of Rock venue) drew approximately 1.38 million attendees across 10 days. Artists at…