As the Semana Santa holiday unfolds, municipalities across Rio de Janeiro are bustling with activities that blend leisure, culture, and sports, aiming to attract both locals and tourists. The state government is backing these events, showcasing the rich traditions and tourist potential of various cities.
In Ipiabas, located in Barra do Piraí, the Rock in Cover festival is set to energize the region from April 18 to April 22, 2025. This vibrant event will feature an array of music, gastronomy, and entertainment options suited for all tastes. It stands out as one of the highlights of the Vale do Café, an area celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes, historic mansions, and rich gastronomy that narrates the story of the 19th century.
Meanwhile, Miguel Pereira is gearing up for the Serra Beer festival, the Festival Centro-Sul de Cerveja Artesanal, which will run from April 17 to April 23, 2025. This festival promises to delight craft beer enthusiasts and is expected to draw a significant crowd.
Petrópolis is also in on the action, hosting the Saloon BBQ, a free barbecue festival that has become a staple in the Fluminense region. This event is anticipated to bring together food lovers and families looking for a fun day out.
On April 20, São Fidélis will hold the second edition of the Corrida de São Fidélis, a running event that is expected to attract participants from various regions. The following day, April 21, will see the first Encontro de Mountain Bike do Padroeiro, featuring trails designed for different skill levels—25 km for beginners, 35 km for intermediates, and 60 km for elite riders.
Búzios is hosting the prestigious Búzios Sailing Week from April 17 to April 20, 2025. This regatta is not only a highlight of the local calendar but also serves as the Campeonato Brasileiro de Vela Oceânica, showcasing some of the best sailing talent in the country.
Back in the capital, the Maracanãzinho will be alive with the excitement of the Final Four of the Basketball Champions League Americas (BCLA) on April 18 and 19, 2025. This competition features top clubs from across the continent vying for a spot in the World Club Championship set to take place in Singapore in September. Rafael Picciani, the Secretary of Sports and Leisure, expressed pride in hosting such a prestigious event, stating, "Receiving one of the most esteemed competitions in world basketball, with great clubs and athletes on the court, is a milestone for sports in our state."
In addition to these events, the Feriado Fest at Parque Cachoeira will take place from April 19 to April 21, 2025. On Saturday, April 19, the festivities include a special blessing of foods at 17:00, a tradition that many families in the municipality observe before Easter Sunday. The community is invited to participate by bringing their food to the pavilion set up near the park's main entrance, where Father Marcos Lourenço Cardoso will lead the blessing.
The Feriado Fest will run daily from 10:00 to 22:00, featuring a variety of attractions. Saturday's lineup includes humorist Gui Santana at 12:00, a cultural performance at 16:00, and the musical group 4 Ever at 19:00. Sunday will see Patricia Santos performing at noon, followed by Débora Grassi and her band at 16:00, and the duo Jonas and Joel at 19:00. The final day, Monday, April 21, will feature Fernando Vieira at 12:00, Marllon Maia Jazz Band at 16:00, Italo e Fernando at 18:00, and Bachega at 19:00.
Throughout the Feriado Fest, the food court will offer a wide range of culinary delights, including sandwiches, artisanal hamburgers, traditional dishes, and craft beer. Local farmers will also have a presence, selling fresh produce on Saturday and Monday from 10:00 to 22:00, and on Sunday from 15:00 to 22:00.
In Serra Negra, the Easter and Tiradentes holiday program kicks off on April 18, 2025, with the performance of the Passion of Christ at 21:30 in Barão do Rio Branco Square. The festivities will continue until Monday, April 21, 2025, at Prefeito João Zelante Square, featuring shows, face painting, theater, and a community walk. All events are free of charge.
Saturday's schedule includes face painting from 8:00 to 12:00, a Rabbit Walk at 9:00, and a theater performance titled "The New Easter Bunny" at 15:30. The evening will conclude with a performance by André Bueno e Banda at 20:00. Sunday will feature Banda Lira Serra Negra at 10:30, Banda Super Nova at 15:00, and Banda Reflexus Lunar at 19:00. The holiday will wrap up on Monday with performances by Marcelo Suman e Andreza Lúcio at 12:00 and Nando Trio at 15:30.
These events across Rio de Janeiro not only celebrate the cultural richness of the region but also emphasize the importance of tourism in the state. According to Gustavo Tutuca, the Secretary of Tourism, "Our role is to leverage the good moment of tourism in RJ to transform demand into a legacy for the entire state." This sentiment resonates as the state aims to enhance its reputation as a prime destination for both local and international visitors.
