Explore Rio de Janeiro: April Highlights
April offers a chance to experience the cultural transformation in Rio de Janeiro as the weather cools down, and the city embraces its post-Carnival spirit with various exhibitions and festivals.
Visitors to Rio can explore some of the most exciting new venues in the city, including an important exhibition and a unique literary festival situated in the scenic neighborhood of Santa Teresa.
Pay Homage to Alfredinho at Bip Bip
Alfredinho, a significant figure in Copacabana’s cultural landscape, passed away in March 2019. However, his bar, Bip Bip, continues to thrive. Tucked away on a side street just a block from the beach, this haven for Rio’s bohemia features free and informal musical sessions showcasing choro on Mondays and Tuesdays, bossa nova on Wednesdays, and samba from Friday through Sunday. Don’t miss special events throughout April by checking the bar’s Facebook page.
Date: 8pm-4am, Mon to Sat; 7pm-1am Sun
Place: Alm. Gonçalves 50, Loja D, Copacabana
Visit Canastra Rosé
Canastra Rosé is the newest venue from the creators behind popular spots like Salomé Bistrô in Leme and Le Pulê in Ipanema. This two-story restored mansion on Botafogo’s lively Rua Álvaro Ramos serves refreshing cocktails, wine, and Brazilian barbecue snacks in a charming atmosphere adorned with tropical plants and retro furniture.
Date: 6:30pm-2am Tues-Fri; 6:30pm-12am Sat, Botafogo
Support the Museu Nacional at CCBB
The National Museum of Brazil suffered devastating losses due to a fire in September 2018. During March and April 2019, efforts to recover and showcase salvaged artifacts are highlighted in a unique exhibit. This free and timely exhibit takes place at the Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, known as one of Rio’s prime cultural spaces.
Date: February 27-April 29, 9am-9pm (closed Tuesdays)
Place: Centro Cultural Banco do Brasil, Primeiro de Março 66, Centro
See Samba Que Elas Querem at Ilha da Gigóia
Ilha da Gigóia, a serene retreat off Rio’s vibrant Barra da Tijuca district, is the ultimate Sunday getaway. This charming island, dotted with cafes and cozy accommodations, hosts free performances by one of the premier samba troupes in the city. Samba Que Elas Querem translates to ‘Samba that the women desire,’ featuring a talented group of eight women who pay tribute to Brazil’s beloved samba genre.
Date: 4pm, April 14
Place: Mansão do Japonês, Ilha da Gigóia, Barra da Tijuca
Experience the Literary Festival FLIST 2019
Scheduled for the final weekend of April, the FLIST (Festa Literária de Santa Teresa) takes place in the picturesque Parque das Ruínas in Santa Teresa. This year, the festival celebrates the work of the iconic Brazilian musician and author Chico Buarque. Expect a variety of exhibitions, presentations, and performances that honor the rich literary culture of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil.
Date: April 27-April 28
Place: Parque das Ruínas, Rua Murtinho Nobre 169, Santa Teresa
