Leisure in Brazil
Brazil’s Culture
Brazil is a bustling country with life and character. There are considered to be many options for entertainment and leisure in Brazil.
It is said that the best way to experience this culture is to visit a beach in Copacabana or Ipanema, assist a samba rehearsal, go to a carnival, go to a restaurant with communal tables, or take part in a musical event.
Brazil is a very communal country that enjoys taking part in activities in large groups.
Popular Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Brazil is the Carnival at Rio de Janeiro.
Similar to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, the Carnival at Rio is thought to be the most famous and extravagant celebrations in the world. It occurs in the beginning of the year on the Saturday before Shrove Tuesday.
It involves the traditional Brazilian dance called the samba. Parades of samba dancers in bold colors bring the streets of Rio de Janeiro to life during this celebration.
Another popular festival is the Parintins Folk Festival. This occurs on June 28th, 29th and 30th every year and it takes place on the banks of the Amazon.
The major focus of the festival is the magical ‘Boi Bumba.’ This is a brawl between two groups that symbolize the legendary bulls, Caprichoso and Garantido. This festival is thought to be much calmer than the carnival. It draws in roughly three and a half thousand boats bringing tourists from different parts of Brazil.
Bahia Carnival, Salvador is another popular choice for entertainment and leisure in Brazil. This is where Afro-Brazilian music is prevalent. Colorful processions and folk dances occur here as well.
Outdoors
Much of the Brazilian population is known to greatly enjoy the outdoors. Sao Paulo inhabitants and Rio’s inhabitants (the cariocas) love the sun and spend a lot time at the beach.
In Rio de Janeiro there is a very evident sense of relaxation. Cariocas tend to be extravagant, linked to music, to sun, to human laziness, and to the moment.
A major form of leisure in Brazil (unmatched to anywhere else) is football (soccer). Brazilians are very devoted to the sport and its players. The country is home to the Marcana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, which is currently the largest stadium in the world. Brazil was the winner of the World Cup in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2003. Games are very rarely missed by anyone in this country.
Other outdoor options for leisure in Brazil include boat rides, nature hiking, surfing, diving, kite-surfing, and wakeboarding. Car racing is also very popular in Brazil. Although the track at the Brazilian Grand Prix in San Paulo is only about ten miles, many Brazilians and tourists gather to watch the racing spectacle.