What to Do in Rio de Janeiro in 2026: Complete Guide

Rio de Janeiro in 2026 will be the stage for cultural events, popular celebrations, fashion, gastronomy, music, and plenty of fun. If you’re planning to travel to the Carioca capital next year, check out the guide “What to Do in Rio de Janeiro in 2026”, featuring the main events and attractions that will energize the city—from concerts to traditional celebrations and long holiday weekends.

New Year’s Eve in Copacabana: The Biggest New Year’s Party in the World

The year begins with one of the most famous celebrations on the planet: New Year’s Eve on Copacabana Beach. This year, the party will be spread across 13 stages in different areas of the city.
Check out some of the shows happening at the turn of the year:

RIO RÉVEILLON 2026 – SHOWS

RIO STAGE (Copacabana):
6:00 PM to 3:00 AM – DJ Cady
8:00 PM – Gilberto Gil + Ney Matogrosso (special guest)
10:30 PM – Belo + Alcione
12:12 AM – João Gomes + Iza (special guest)
2:00 AM – Alok
3:30 AM – G.R.E.S. Beija Flor

SAMBA AMSTEL STAGE (Copacabana):
6:00 PM to 3:00 AM – DJ Tamy
8:00 PM – Roberta Sá
10:00 PM – Mart’nália
12:12 AM – Diogo Nogueira
2:00 AM – Feyjão invites Bloco da Preta
3:30 AM – G.R.E.S. Grande Rio

✨ Local tip: Arrive early at the Copacabana stages to secure a good spot, and enjoy the musical diversity across stages throughout the city.

Click here to check all stages and attractions

rio de janeiro reveillon copacabana

Carnival in Rio de Janeiro: February 13–18

What to do in Rio de Janeiro in 2026? Rio’s Carnival returns in February 2026 in full force, with lots of glitter, fans waving, and nonstop celebration.

Between February 13 and 18, Rio celebrates with street blocks, parties, and samba school parades at the Sambadrome (Sapucaí)—the greatest Carnival spectacle on the planet.

Where to enjoy it:

  • Themed parties and balls, such as the traditional Rio Scenarium in Downtown Rio.
    Rio de Janeiro Cultural Agenda.

Rio Fashion Week — April 15–18

After more than a decade off the calendar, Rio Fashion Week (RIOFW) returns to Rio de Janeiro. From April 15 to 18, 2026, at Pier Mauá and other iconic locations across the city.
The event brings together around 30 fashion shows, along with fashion, debates, and cultural experiences—reinforcing the city as a reference in fashion and lifestyle.

FIFA Fan Fest Copacabana — June and July (FIFA World Cup 2026)

Even though the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Rio de Janeiro will host the Fan Fest on Copacabana Beach.
Between June 11 and July 19, there will be giant screens and live shows so fans can cheer together.

Rock in Rio 2026 — September 4–13

One of the largest music festivals in the world returns to the Olympic Park. The City of Rock will host seven days of concerts between September 4–7 and September 11–13, 2026.

Check the festival lineup.

The event usually features international and Brazilian artists from different genres, turning Rio into a global stage.

Visitor tip: Plan your accommodation in advance in Copacabana, Barra da Tijuca, or near a metro station—it’s the best way to enjoy all festival days without transportation issues.

airbnb in rio de janeiro

Public Holidays and Long Weekends in 2026

Rio’s 2026 calendar includes several dates perfect for extended trips and long events. Keep an eye on them and plan your visit to make the most of your stay.

Rio de Janeiro Public Holidays 2026:

  • January 1 (Thursday) — New Year’s Day
  • January 20 (Tuesday) — Saint Sebastian’s Day (municipal holiday)
  • February 16 (Monday) — Carnival (optional workday)
  • February 17 (Tuesday) — Carnival (state holiday)
  • February 18 (Wednesday) — Ash Wednesday (optional workday)
  • April 3 (Friday) — Good Friday
  • April 21 (Tuesday) — Tiradentes
  • April 23 (Thursday) — Saint George’s Day (state holiday)
  • June 4 (Thursday) — Corpus Christi (optional workday)
  • May 1 (Friday) — Labor Day
  • September 7 (Monday) — Independence Day
  • October 12 (Monday) — Our Lady of Aparecida
  • November 2 (Monday) — All Souls’ Day
  • November 15 (Sunday) — Proclamation of the Republic
  • November 20 (Friday) — Black Awareness Day (state holiday)
  • December 24 (Thursday) — Christmas Eve (optional workday)
  • December 25 (Friday) — Christmas Day

These holidays are excellent opportunities to visit tourist attractions, enjoy cultural events, and discover the best of Carioca gastronomy and nightlife.

Beyond Major Events — Culture, Samba, and Rio’s Nightlife

Rio de Janeiro offers much more than specific events. The city breathes music and culture all year long:

  • Samba school rehearsals — many open their headquarters to the public before Carnival.
  • Samba, choro, and live music circles across the city, such as Pedra do Sal and Lapa.
  • Beaches like Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon, with kiosks, bars, and outdoor activities.

Why Visit Rio de Janeiro in 2026

What to do in Rio de Janeiro in 2026? The year 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting times to experience Rio de Janeiro:

  • International events like Rock in Rio, plus fashion and culture at Rio Fashion Week.
  • Traditional celebrations such as Carnival and New Year’s Eve in Copacabana.
  • World Cup vibes at the Fan Fest in Rio.
  • And plenty of long holiday weekends perfect for exploring the city.

Plan your itinerary in advance, choose your ideal accommodation in neighborhoods like Copacabana, Ipanema, or Leme, and dive into the unique energy of the Marvelous City in 2026.

TOUR IN RIO