Christmas is one of the main holidays in Brazil. For Brazilians, it is more than just a day on the calendar — it’s a time of profound significance, marked by heartfelt gatherings, cultural rituals, and a spirit of togetherness that is celebrated along with the extended family.
Christmas celebrations in Brazil start on December 24th, Christmas Eve, when the families get together for a traditional Brazilian dinner and exchange gifts.
The next day, Christmas day, all the shops and offices remain closed. Nevertheless, some attractions and restaurants do open on a particular time schedule. People generally like to spend time visiting relatives with their families.
Therefore, we have put together some tips on how to celebrate Christmas in Rio de Janeiro if you are visiting the city during this holiday.
What to do at Christmas in Rio de Janeiro
The city’s main tourist attractions, Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, are open as usual (but we recommend visiting the attractions’ official website to check possible changes to opening hours).
Other attractions, such as Museums, are traditionally closed. However, the city’s Botanical Garden is open on the 24th during particular hours (generally until 2pm).
We do not recommend visiting the city center, the historic and commercial area of the city, as the stores are closed and therefore the streets become more deserted.
Spending the day at the beach or visiting parks like Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas can be a good solution, as they are open spaces in residential areas traditionally frequented by families.
And if you are looking for adventure, how about taking a hang gliding or paragliding flight? Or even take a scenic helicopter flight around the city? Check with our sales team about our partners’ availability.
Special event: Natal da Lagoa 2023
In 2023, the city will have a new Christmas event for the whole family at the Lagoon space.
Among the attractions, they will have a daily illuminated parade, water spray projection show, Ferris wheel, Santa Claus’s house, Christmas fair, toys, gastronomic area, Christmas tree, and light installations.
Event Days: 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25 December 2023.
Opening hours: 3pm to 10pm
Tickets: Entry is free, but you must present the ticket collected on the GO Dream platform for access control.
Location: Clube Lagoon, Av. Borges de Medeiros, 1424 Lagoa, Rio de Janeiro.
Where to eat at Christmas in Rio de Janeiro
Most restaurants in Rio de Janeiro are closed on December 25th. Still, some offer a special dinner for the night of the 24th, especially restaurants inside the city’s leading hotels.
One of the city’s most traditional Christmas dinners is at Restaurante Pergula, inside the iconic Belmond Copacabana Palace (for information and reservations, contact the hotel directly).
If you are staying at an Airbnb, be aware that many restaurants accept orders for a traditional Brazilian Christmas dinner. Some examples are Confeitaria Colombo and the restaurant specializing in salads, Delírio Tropical. For information and prices, please contact the establishments directly.
How to get around at Christmas in Rio de Janeiro
Public transport operates as usual, and Uber is also available. However, be prepared for longer waiting times and very high dynamic rates as demand increases.
For more information on Public Transport in Rio de Janeiro, read our post: Public Transportation Guide.
What do you think of our tips?
Whether lounging on the beach or having a Brazilian Christmas Dinner, celebrating Christmas in Rio De Janeiro offers a unique blend of tropical festivity and cultural richness that will create unforgettable holiday memories. Feliz Natal!
If you are planning a trip to Rio de Janeiro during Christmas Season and would like assistance from our local experts in planning your trip, check out our Travel Planning service. Our local expert team is dedicated to making your journey to Rio de Janeiro memorable.
Discover our private local experiences, designed to provide an authentic insight into Rio de Janeiro’s vibrant culture. Immerse yourself in the city’s local way of life and experience Rio de Janeiro like a true local.
