t Colorful fireworks exploding above Copacabana
Brazilians are world-famous party professionals. Samba nights in Rio, street parties in Salvador, clubbing in São Paulo, moon parties along the coast, or simply sharing a few bottles of ice-cold Skols: whatever the occasion, there’s no shortage of fun to be had in Brazil.
t Colorful fireworks exploding above Copacabana
Visitors to Brazil over New Year’s Eve are in for a treat. It’s a big affair – especially in Rio city, which throws its second-biggest party after Carnaval on Copacabana beach. The festivities attract over two million tourists and Cariocas dressed in white (for good luck), with live music performances and a spectacular midnight firework show. Vai Tapajós music festival also provides an incredible end-of-year party, while locals in the know flock to Trancoso to celebrate at exclusive beach parties on Praia do Coqueiros.
Famously carefree and sociable, Brazilians epitomize the French expression for the exuberant enjoyment of life. This is especially evident in their love of dancing, with a huge range of clubs found in all major cities. Shimmy to traditional rhythms at the annual Festa de Reis festival in Laranjeiras (Sergipe), dance to forró at Natal’s Rastapé (www.rastapecasadeforro.com.br), try pagode music at São Paulo’s Galleria Bar (galleriabar.com.br), or move to funk at Rio’s Fosfobox (www.fosfobox.com.br). There’s also been a – literal – rise in rooftop bars across the country. Try Bar Obelisco (barobelisco.vistasaopaulo.com.br) for spectacular views and superb cocktails. Or relax at Rio’s chic Bar dos Descasados (www.santateresahotelrio.com) with the city laid out below.
In June São Paulo hosts the world’s biggest Pride. The city’s Rua Augusta has a great gay scene, with clubs such as Espaço Desmanche (espacodesmanche.com) packed until late. In Rio, dance the night away at the Galeria Café (www.galeriacafe.com.br/home), and in Porto Alegre, pop into intimate Porto Carioca (www.facebook.com/portocariocabar).
Insider Tip
There a few things to bear in mind if you want to party with Brazilians. First and foremost, be fashionably late. House parties never start on time, so arrive at least an hour or two later than agreed. Secondly, dress up. There’s no such thing as too fancy. And finally, dance! The locals pour their heart and soul into partying, so leave all inhibitions behind and do the same.