In 2026, Rio de Janeiro confirms its status as one of the world’s most vibrant cultural capitals. With an exceptional calendar of international events spanning music, sport, art and innovation, the Cidade Maravilhosa is set to deliver an unforgettable year. For discerning travelers seeking exclusive experiences, Rio becomes a destination to be lived—month after month.
A musical and elegant start to the year
The year opens in January with Universo Spanta, hosted at Marina da Glória, bringing together some of Brazil’s most celebrated artists against the stunning backdrop of Guanabara Bay. Shortly after, Rio Bossa Nossa takes over Ipanema Beach, offering free open-air performances that blend bossa nova, MPB and the relaxed rhythm of Rio’s summer.
February marks one of the city’s most iconic moments: Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. From February 13 to 21, the Sambadrome becomes the stage for the world-famous samba school parades of the Grupo Especial and Série Ouro. A spectacle of music, movement and artistry, Carnival remains one of the most sought-after events on the global social calendar.
Also in February, the city welcomes Rio Open, South America’s premier ATP tennis tournament, held at the Jockey Club in Gávea. Combining world-class sport with an exclusive atmosphere, the event attracts international players and sophisticated spectators alike.
March & April: culture, glamour and global performances
March brings a new cultural milestone with the inaugural Golden Globes Tribute Awards, hosted at the legendary Copacabana Palace. Dedicated to Brazilian audiovisual excellence, the ceremony reinforces Rio’s growing influence on the global cultural scene.
In April, fashion returns with Rio Fashion Week at Pier Mauá, while music takes center stage as The Weeknd brings his After Hours Till Dawn world tour to the Nilton Santos Stadium, with Anitta opening the show—one of the most anticipated concerts of the year.
Spring energy: sport, innovation and creativity
In May, Rio will host a major international concert, with details yet to be revealed, further underlining the city’s global appeal. The month also features the Rio Boat Show, a key event on the international nautical calendar, and Rio2C, the largest creativity and innovation conference in Latin America, gathering leaders from the worlds of media, technology and culture.
June sees the return of the Rio Marathon, one of the world’s most scenic urban races, offering runners breathtaking views of beaches, mountains and iconic landmarks.
From winter elegance to a spectacular September finale
July and August continue the momentum with the Festival de Inverno at Marina da Glória and Rio Innovation Week, a major hub for entrepreneurship, technology and future-focused ideas.
September marks the grand highlight of the year with Rock in Rio. Over seven days, the Cidade do Rock hosts some of the biggest names in global music, reaffirming the festival’s status as one of the most influential music events in the world. The month concludes with ArtRio, Latin America’s leading contemporary art fair, drawing collectors, galleries and artists from around the globe.
Rio in 2026: a destination defined by experiences
With such a rich and diverse calendar, 2026 is shaping up to be Rio de Janeiro’s most dynamic tourism year of the decade. Music, art, sport and culture converge in a city where natural beauty meets international sophistication.
At Latin Exclusive, we curate this energy through a selection of exceptional private residences, tailor-made concierge services and exclusive experiences, allowing our clients to discover Rio at its most refined, intimate and authentic.
